Rafael Nadal has shocked everyone with his early exit from the US Open after losing to Frances Tiafoe. The entire crowd stood up to laud the youngster who came up with a stunning victory. Not what the Spaniard would have wanted but the crowd stood up for him too as a mark of respect to give a roaring send-off.
This victory will be etched in Tiafoe’s memory forever. Post the match, the 24-year-old spared time to opine on his win and address the crowd. He started by explaining the change in the ‘Big Three’ era and said that the era is now in the endgame. The American further stated that the youngsters are taking over and said that it was time people admitted it.
“It's cool to see a new era. I think Nick (Kyrgios) playing great tennis is great for tennis. You see him packing stadiums when he's playing singles, doubles, whatever. Alcaraz is a great personality. Sinner. Myself. People get behind me. You know the American guys, Tommy (Paul), (Taylor) Fritz. There's a ton of guys playing great tennis,” he said.
The youngster toiled it hard in the ground and made a stunning comeback after the second set. The 24-year-old eventually won the game with a scoreline of 6-4, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 and created history.
I know what I can do: Frances Tiafoe
The youngster then went on to speak about his parents and said that they would remember this victory forever. He added that they have attended his games of late and said that this win would be special for them.
“To see them experience me beat Rafa Nadal, they've seen me have big wins, but to beat those Mount Rushmore guys, for them, I can't imagine what was going through their heads,” Tiafoe said and added, “I mean, they're going to remember today for the rest of their lives.”
Further speaking on the match, the youngster said that he had no pressure and added that he enjoyed the game. “It's all good. I know what I can do, I know what I'm capable of doing these next couple of matches if that happens," Tiafoe said. He added that he was there to play tennis and bet on his passion.
"I still feel no pressure. I still feel like I'm not supposed to do anything. I'm just here to play great tennis and enjoy it. I'm having fun out there, as you can see,” he concluded.