Taylor Fritz experienced a significant collapse in the third round of the U.S. Open, losing to Francisco Cerundolo after holding a commanding two-set lead. The ninth-ranked American saw his hopes of advancing dashed in a gut-wrenching 6-3, 4-6, 4-6, 4-6 defeat on Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Fritz appeared to be in control of the match, having easily secured the first two sets against the 24th-ranked Cerundolo. He even held a 4-2 advantage in the second set, further solidifying his dominance. However, the momentum shifted dramatically, allowing Cerundolo to mount a comeback and ultimately secure the victory.
As the second-highest-ranked American in the men's singles draw, Fritz's early exit adds to the ongoing pursuit of a Grand Slam title for American men, a feat not achieved since Andy Roddick's U.S. Open victory in 2023.