Frances Tiafoe has suggested that his gut-wrenching loss to Ben Shelton in last year’s US Open quarter-final contributed to his sub-par start to the following season.
Tiafoe had been poised to replicate the form that nearly took him to the final the year before, but Shelton dashed these hopes by despatching his fellow American in four sets.
It was the 2022 US Open, however, that truly marked a pivotal moment in Tiafoe’s career.
Despite a heartbreaking five-set defeat to Carlos Alcaraz in the semi-final, which reduced him to tears, it also ignited a belief that he could one day return and claim the title.
Frances Tiafoe recalls defeat to Ben Shelton at 2023 US Open
Frances Tiafoe and Ben Shelton are back in New York and, after coming through their first two matches unscathed, have set up a blockbuster rematch in the third round.
Ahead of the showpiece event, Tiafoe reflected on the loss he suffered to his less-experienced countryman in last year’s quarter-final and the effects it had on him.
“That wasn’t easy,” Tiafoe said. “I wanted to get back-to-back semis, I wanted to do well.
“That wasn’t something I was pleased about by any means. Then I had a bad season after that to follow, but it’s stuff you learn from.
“I think everything that comes only sets you up for something better ahead. So, I’m super excited for the [re]match and the opportunity to do it again.
“Obviously, he’s very much like me with how excited and energetic he is on the court. He has such a big game, serves big, gets the crowd going.
“He’s got one of the best serves on the tour, no question. A lefty, hits all the spots, changes pace well. That’s gonna be tough but I’m super excited.”
Tiafoe wants revenge
American tennis has undergone a spectacular resurgence over the past 12 months, with five men now inside the world’s top 20 all vying to impress at their native slam.
Andy Roddick commented on the ‘healthy jealousy’ that surrounds these men, and this will play a key factor when Tiafoe and Shelton take to the court in the third round.
Tiafoe has spoken highly of his mesmerizing run to the semi-finals in 2022, branding it a ‘life-changing moment’, but his gut-wrenching loss to Shelton the following year is sure to add fuel to the fire.
The 26-year-old now sees the US Open as his best opportunity to win a grand slam and does not take lightly to anyone who stands in the way of that.
Tiafoe will relish the chance to not only avenge his loss to Shelton but once again progress through to the fourth round, where a projected clash with reigning champion Novak Djokovic awaits.
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