Frances Tiafoe has marked his presence at this year’s US Open with a captivating four-set triumph under the lights against fellow American Aleksander Kovacevic.
The 26-year-old’s infectious energy is felt across destinations on the ATP Tour, but on Monday night we were reminded of the competitor he transforms into when scheduled to play a night session at his native grand slam.
Tiafoe suffered a gut-wrenching defeat in the semi-finals of the US Open in 2022, coming unstuck by Carlos Alcaraz in a five-set epic that left the American in tears, and the following year, he was ousted by an in-form Ben Shelton in the quarter-finals.
However, after surging into his maiden Masters 1000 title in Cincinnati, Tiafoe is tapping into the currents at just the right time to make another impressive run at Flushing Meadows.
Frances Tiafoe claims the ‘Honey Deuce’ cocktail brings the energy at US Open night sessions
It’s no secret that Frances Tiafoe and US Open night sessions are a perfect match, but what is it about these moments that bring out the best in him?
He certainly thrives on the energy, but he hinted at something else that might be energizing the fans to bring the intensity.
“The energy is second to none,” Tiafoe told ESPN after his 6-4 6-3 4-6 7-5 win. “First off, everyone’s on the Grey Goose ‘Honey Deuce’, everyone’s having such a good time – they really are.
“New York energy, they love entertainment. So, they love that back-and-forth, guys showing their emotions.
“They want to see an American duo, they get behind their own. Being American, there’s nothing like it. It’s a privilege to play every year.”
What is the Honey Deuce?
The Honey Deuce cocktail is the signature drink of the US Open, highlighting Grey Goose’s 18-year partnership with the tournament.
It is a blend of Grey Goose vodka, fresh lemonade, and raspberry liqueur, garnished with a honeydew melon ball skewer.
In 2023, there were an astonishing 450,000 sales over the fortnight, resulting in $9.9 million in revenue and Tiafoe will be hoping that these numbers continue to flourish as long as he is scheduled for night sessions.
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