Speaking at a press conference before the US Open, Frances Tiafoe talked about what made the tournament special. He touched upon what made the American Grand Slam event different from other events, mainly crediting it to the fans and the atmosphere around it. The World No. 10 mentioned how fans get drunk as early as three in the afternoon and enjoy themselves.
The US Open is famous for its lively atmosphere, something which the other Majors lack. While the other Grand Slam events have a reputation for being largely formal and conventional, the tournament in New York is akin to a festival. The event is marketed as a spectacle to enjoy and not just to watch tennis.
Frances Tiafoe sums up US Open perfectly
Tiafoe was asked what was it about the US Open that he enjoyed the most. The American believes that the ‘rowdy’ audiences make the event special and enjoyable, making the US Open the best Grand Slam. The tournament is known to indulge fans in festive activities and events. The US Open Fan Week allows viewers to get in and participate in a bunch of tennis-centric activities. It also allows access to player practice sessions. Food and drink are widely available, giving the arena a picnic-like feel.
Tiafoe called it one of the best sporting events in the world, stating that the crowd in New York is matchless. The local lad joked that every fan is drunk by evening and there to have a good time. Under such circumstances, the officials can’t control the fans and just let them be, according to Tiafoe.
“You asked about why the US Open is the best slam. I mean, ’cause you can’t beat the rowdy fans here. Everyone past 3 p.m. is drunk as hell, just having an unbelievable time. The ref has no shot at controlling that atmosphere. Just let it go and let it do what it does.
“Yeah, it’s arguably one of the best sporting events in the world.”
Tiafoe said that American tennis is in a good place currently. He named his compatriots and said that they were hopeful of emulating Andy Roddick’s fest of winning the US Open in front of the home crowd.
Tiafoe’s chances at Flushing Meadows
Tiafoe comes into the tournament as the second-highest-ranked American, just behind World No.9 Taylor Fritz. However, his poor performance at the recent Cincinnati Open will be on his mind. Tiafoe will look to do better at Flushing Meadows. He is placed in the same quarter as Casper Ruud and Holger Rune, who are deemed favorites to make it to the quarter-finals.
Tiafoe has developed a knack for losing to lower-ranked opponents. Hence, he has to be wary of a potential clash against World No.23 Adrian Mannarino. If he gets through that challenge, he will most likely meet Ruud in the last 16. The World No.5, runner-up last season, will be the first big test Tiafoe will face. Then onwards, every match will bring progressively tougher opponents.
The American’s best finish in the US Open was reaching the semi-finals last year, where eventual champion Carlos Alcaraz bested him. Given the stronger pool and his patchy recent form, it seems difficult to expect Tiafoe to better his result from last year.
