US Open: Tiafoe Advances to All-American Semifinal After Dimitrov Retires

Frances Tiafoe has reached the semifinals of the US Open after Grigor Dimitrov was forced to retire from their quarterfinal match. Tiafoe was leading 6-3, 6-7(5), 6-3, 4-1 when Dimitrov, battling an injury, decided to withdraw.

Dimitrov, who had been competitive throughout the match, began to show signs of struggle during the latter part of the third set. His movement became increasingly restricted, and he called for medical assistance during the eighth game. Despite his efforts to continue, Dimitrov retired after three hours and four minutes of play.

“I didn’t want it to end this way, but I’m obviously happy to advance. It’s incredible to make it to another semi-final here,” Tiafoe said post-match.

Tiafoe expressed satisfaction with his performance, noting, “It was a really high-level match. I liked where I was in the third regardless.”

The match was close, with Tiafoe nearly taking a two-set lead when he reached 6-5 in the second set. Dimitrov managed to push the set to a tie-break but faltered with consecutive double faults, allowing Tiafoe to level the match at one set apiece.

Tiafoe’s aggressive play proved effective as he finished with 14 break chances, converting six. Both players showcased their skills, with Dimitrov delivering impressive one-handed backhands and passing shots, while Tiafoe demonstrated his sharp net play and quick reflexes.

Tiafoe will now face fellow American Taylor Fritz in the semifinals, marking the first all-American men’s major semi-final since the 2005 US Open. Fritz, the 20th seed, leads their head-to-head 6-1, though Tiafoe won their initial encounter in Indian Wells in 2016.

Tiafoe’s performance at the US Open could potentially elevate him to the top spot among American men in the ATP rankings if he wins the title. Dimitrov, who had already faced challenges this season including a retirement at Wimbledon due to a groin injury, leaves New York with a season record of 37-14.

As Tiafoe moves on to the semifinals, the upcoming clash with Fritz promises to be a thrilling encounter, with the winner set to become the first American man to reach a Grand Slam singles final since Andy Roddick at Wimbledon in 2009.