Frances Tiafoe has battled his way into the second round of Wimbledon with a hard-fought win against Matteo Arnaldi.
The American emerged victorious from a five-set thriller on the opening day in London, where he came from two sets behind.
The Italian led the way after two sets on Wimbledon court 15, but his opponent produced a stunning comeback to win 7-6(7-5), 6-2, 6-1, 6-3, 6-3.
The world number 29 has now secured a second round meeting with Borna Coric, who won his opener versus Felipe Alves in straight sets.
It is certain to be an interesting match-up given Tiafoe’s recent comments, with the American having launched a scathing attack on many of his fellow professionals.
Frances Tiafoe praises Borna Coric after his ‘clowns’ comments
“It’s brutal,” said Tiafoe, as quoted by the Express. “Highs and lows. Think about where I’m at.
Literally this week last year I was 10 in the world and now I’m barely seeded here. Losing to clowns, I hate to say it but I’m just gonna be honest.”
His upcoming opponent Coric may have been expecting a similar treatment, but Tiafoe has instead been very complimentary towards the Croatian.
“Tough!” Tiafoe said about facing Coric, as per Tennis Channel. “We know Borna, what he has done and what’s he’s capable of.
“Doesn’t matter where he is ranked. He is super professional, one of the most professional guys on tour. He is going to want and need this win just like I do.
“So I expect another tough match, I don’t want anything to come easy, I want everything to be earned at this point so I’m just going to come after him.”
Frances Tiafoe overcomes injury to play at Wimbledon
Tiafoe’s recent frustrations are understandable, with the former world number 10 having endured a torrid time with injury lately.
He was forced to withdraw from Queen’s after a slip against Rinky Hijikata, throwing his Wimbledon appearance into doubt.
But the 26-year-old American has overcome his MCL strain to take on the grass court in the English capital.
Tiafoe will not, however, be very thankful at all for the five sets against Arnaldi in just the first round of the competition.
Fellow star Novak Djokovic will have some sympathy for the world number 29, with the Serbian also heading into the competition with a knee injury.
The duo might even have discussed their issues up close during their Wimbledon practice match, which the former world number one won.
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