Cerundolo defeats Fritz in five‑set comeback at US Open

At the Arthur Ashe Stadium on Saturday, Argentine Francisco Cerúndolo upset the world No. 9, Taylor Fritz, in a five‑set thriller that ended 3‑6, 4‑6, 6‑3, 6‑4, 6‑4. Cerúndolo, who had been riding a string of hard‑court victories, seized the momentum in the third set after Fritz faltered on a service game that cost him a break‑point opportunity. The Argentine’s steady baseline play and timely net approaches allowed him to level the match and ultimately take the final two sets.

Fritz entered the match with a strong start, winning the first two sets and holding serve in the opening game of the third. However, a single lapse in focus on his service game shifted the tide. Cerúndolo capitalised, breaking Fritz’s serve and then holding his own to level the match. The American struggled to recover, and the Argentine maintained composure, winning the last two sets with a mix of aggressive groundstrokes and efficient net play. The loss marked the end of Fritz’s US Open campaign, as he could not overcome the resilient Argentine in the third round.

Cerúndolo’s victory underscores his growing consistency on the tour, while Fritz’s defeat highlights the fine margins at the highest level of competition. The Argentine’s triumph will boost his confidence heading into the remainder of the season, whereas Fritz will likely reassess his strategy after the hard‑fought loss.