Taylor Fritz smashes racket early in Cincinnati match against Alex Michelsen
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 17, 2026, 11:03 AM
Last updated Aug 17, 2026
Taylor Fritz's match at the Cincinnati Open against Alex Michelsen saw an unusual eruption of frustration as he smashed his racket just four minutes into play. After losing his opening service game, Fritz expressed his anger, citing a poor start and difficulties with his serve. Despite this rocky beginning, he quickly recovered, breaking back and ultimately winning the first set 6-3. He continued his strong performance into the second set, securing an early break and serving well to maintain control. Fritz now prepares to face Daniel Merida in the third round, aiming to regain form ahead of the US Open.
- •Fritz smashed his racket after a poor opening service game.
- •He was broken in his first game against Michelsen.
- •Fritz won the first set 6-3 after breaking back.
- •He maintained control in the second set, winning without being broken.
- •Next, he will play Daniel Merida in the Cincinnati Open.
- 11:03 AMYahoo Sports — Taylor Fritz Reveals What Triggered Racket Smash Just 4 Minutes Into Cincinnati Open Match
"It’s rare to see Taylor Fritz lose his cool during a match, and even rarer to see him take that frustration out on his equipment. But much like what happened at last year’s Canadian Open, the American’s calm exterior cracked again in Cincinnati.
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