Rafael Nadal crashes out of the US Open to inspired Frances Tiafoe
Rafael Nadal is out of the US Open after he lost to American Frances Tiafoe in the fourth round.
The reigning Australian Open and French Open champion came into the match with a perfect record in majors in 2022, but it was Tiafoe who was a deserved winner on Arthur Ashe.
The Spaniard struggled to find his rhythm and Tiafoe was able to close out a 6-4, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 win in relative ease.
“I played unbelievable tennis but something special happened today,” Tiafoe said.
“He’s one of the greatest players of all time! I’ve had problems before, I didn’t have the maturity in these big matches. I’m feeling in a better place now.
“Honestly when I first came on the scene I wasn’t ready for it mentally and mature enough.
“I’ve been able to develop and I have great team around me. With you guys, it’s been great.
“I’m not thinking about my next match now. Today’s an unbelievable day.”
Have a moment Frances Tiafoe!#USOpen pic.twitter.com/egoIVDoRWh
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 5, 2022
While Tiafoe may not want to think about it now, it is Andrey Rublev that he will face in the US Open quarterfinals.
Rublev looked out of sorts in the US hardcourt swing but he impressed to beat world number nine Cameron Norrie in straight sets.
Rafael Nadal, meanwhile, can still seize the world number one spot next week but he is now reliant on Carlos Alcaraz and Casper Ruud failing.
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