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Frances Tiafoe breaks Alex Michelsen’s heart as hug produces enduring image of U.S. Open
nytimes.com • • general
Key Points:
- Frances Tiafoe staged a remarkable comeback from two sets and 5-3 down to defeat Alex Michelsen in a grueling 4-hour and 40-minute match, winning 5-7, 3-6, 7-5, 6-3, 7-6(10-6) to reach the U.S. Open semifinals.
- Tiafoe showed resilience despite a poor start, where he struggled with his serve and was dominated by Michelsen’s powerful game for nearly three sets.
- Michelsen, a rising talent known for his big serve and aggressive style, was on the verge of his biggest career win but faltered with crucial double faults and missed serves late in the match.
- The match featured intense rallies, strategic net play, and dramatic momentum shifts, culminating in a tense final-set tiebreak where Tiafoe secured victory with key aces and winning shots.
- After the match, Tiafoe comforted an emotional Michelsen, highlighting the sportsmanship and camaraderie between the two players despite the tough contest.
