Trailing 3-0 in third, Tiafoe topples top seed Tsitsipas in latest big-time performance
The American won six of the last seven games, and was the subject of an instant podcast after the match.
MATCH POINT: Frances Tiafoe completes his comeback against Stefanos Tsitsipas
Frances Tiafoe ousted Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets this summer at Wimbledon, but his rollercoaster victory over the Greek on Thursday at the Vienna Open was arguably even more impressive.
The top seed in Vienna, Tsitsipas was at his elegantly ruthless best from the onset—and, in truth, throughout much of this match. Even after Tiafoe leveled the match at a set apiece, Tsitsipas ran out to a 3-0 lead in the third. His forehand was electric, and his service games were automatic.
But much like he's done in the past, Tiafoe didn't question his strategy or panic. He was relentless in playing aggressively—particularly with his return of serve—and didn't shy away from some of the backhand-to-backhand battles Tsitsipas had been winning. Tiafoe continued to come forward, and pretty soon, it was #bigfoeonthecomeup.
Tsitsipas would gave away two service breaks by double faults, as Tiafoe soared to a 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 triumph, winning six of the final seven games.
You've got fans going nuts early in the match. I want to play. I want to be out there, I want to give it my all. You've got little kids screaming 'Big Foe' and that's what it's about. It's almost irrelevant who you're playing. Obviously I want to beat Stefanos and these guys, it's always good to have on the resumé. It's been great. Frances Tiafoe
Tiafoe will play Diego Schwartzman in a Friday quarterfinal, the latest encouraging performance in a season of them. You wouldn't know it by Tiafoe's ranking (No. 49), but he can play with—and beat—anyone on the right day.
Shortly after the match, I discussed Tiafoe's equally engaging play and personality on the TENNIS.com Inside-In Podcast, with host Mitch Michaels:
You can listen to the entire podcast here.