Frances Tiafoe pinpoints the two shots he’s really improved since hiring his new coach after Wimbledon this year

Follow us on Google Discover

Frances Tiafoe is looking to make a strong start to his 2025 season as he takes on the Brisbane International in Australia.

Tiafoe has been tipped for Grand Slam success, with the American currently 18th in the ATP Tour rankings.

Three-time ATP title winner Tiafoe will play Carlos Alcaraz in Puerto Rico in March, with the pair having just played an exhibition match in Charlotte.

But the former must first turn his attention to the Brisbane International, with Tiafoe taking on Adam Walton in round one.

Should he beat the Australian on home soil, a second round clash with his close friend Nick Kyrgios is on the cards.

Frances Tiafoe says what he has improved since hiring David Witt after Wimbledon

Ahead of his opening match, Tiafoe was asked by reporters what his coach David Witt has brought to his game.

“One, he instilled a lot of confidence,” said Tiafoe. “The biggest thing he came on, focusing on competing, focusing on understanding that I’m one of the best players in the world. I lost sight of that for a little bit.

“As far as pertaining to my game, my return of serve has improved a lot since I started working with him. Then first strike.

READ MORE: Frances Tiafoe shares what really shocked him about the Charlotte Invitational event where he beat Carlos Alcaraz

“Use my speed to be aggressive, not defensive. Looking to dictate play from the middle of the court, play closer up to the baseline, play faster.

“I think I’ve played much faster since he’s come on, which that’s when I’m really tough, using my hands, stuff like that, try to get in as much as I can.

“Doesn’t take a rocket scientist, but he did it in the right way. Yeah, we just have a great rapport. He’s a funny guy. Laid back. I think I needed that.”

What is Frances Tiafoe’s career Grand Slam record?

Tiafoe turned to Witt after Wimbledon earlier this summer, with the coach having previously worked with the likes of Venus Williams and Jessica Pegula.

It was a disappointing Grand Slam season for the 26-year-old right up until the US Open, where he reached the semi-finals.

READ MORE: Wimbledon have made decision for 2025 which Frances Tiafoe may really dislike

Tiafoe fell to compatriot Taylor Fritz in New York, having fallen in the second rounds of the Australian Open and French Open, and the third round of Wimbledon.

Having once reached number 10 on the ATP Tour, the American’s best Grand Slam result is a US Open semi-final finish, which he has managed on two occasions.

He should now be eyeing a much better major season next time out, with Witt certain to play a crucial role in any success he may achieve.