Francisco Cerundolo overturned a two-set deficit to beat home favourite Taylor Fritz 3-6, 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-4 in the third round of the US Open.
Key facts
- Cerundolo won 3-6, 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-4 in Arthur Ashe Stadium
- Fritz, the No 9 seed, led by two sets to love
- Fritz had three break points for a chance to serve for the match
- Fritz broke serve in the opening game of the third set before momentum shifted
Francisco Cerundolo produced a remarkable comeback to defeat home hope Taylor Fritz in the third round of the US Open, recovering from two sets down to win 3-6, 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-4 inside Arthur Ashe Stadium.
For much of the afternoon, Fritz appeared in complete control. The No 9 seed had established a two-sets-to-love lead over the Argentinian before breaking serve in the opening game of the third set, according to the Guardian.
But the momentum shifted decisively after a single unfocused service game from Fritz. Once he had lost control, the Guardian reported, he spent another two hours unable to retrieve it as Cerundolo grew into the contest.
Fritz was left to rue missed opportunities in the closing stages, having held three break points for the chance to serve for the match. He was unable to convert them, and the American’s hopes slipped away.
The decisive moment came as Fritz sent a final, desperate backhand far past the baseline. He instantly held his face in his hands, unable to hide the agony of squandering such a great opportunity, the Guardian described.
The excruciating third-round defeat brought Fritz’s US Open campaign to an end, while a courageous Cerundolo advanced after nearly four sets of fightback.
Why it matters
Fritz was one of the leading American hopes at his home Grand Slam, and his exit removes a top-10 seed from the draw. Cerundolo's comeback underscores how quickly momentum can turn in best-of-five-set tennis.
Frequently asked questions
What was the final score?
Francisco Cerundolo beat Taylor Fritz 3-6, 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-4 in the third round of the US Open.
How far behind was Cerundolo before winning?
Cerundolo trailed by two sets to love, and Fritz had also broken serve in the opening game of the third set, before the Argentinian fought back.
Did Fritz have a chance to serve for the match?
Fritz had three break points that would have given him the chance to serve for the match, but he was unable to convert them.