Tiafoe at the 2024 US Open: From Doubts to Semi-Final Contender:

Frances Tiafoe’s belief has been growing with each victory at this year’s US Open. After defeating Grigor Dimitrov on Tuesday night, the American has reached the semi-finals in New York for the second time.

With this win, Tiafoe is now a strong contender to become the first American man to win a major singles title since Andy Roddick claimed the US Open in 2003. The 26-year-old revealed that only now is he allowing himself to dream about the potential ahead in the next five days.

“I just came from the final in Cincinnati and felt pretty good coming here. It’s always helpful to compete in a place where you’ve had success,” Tiafoe said in his post-match press conference. “But to be honest, I wasn’t really thinking about making it to the semi-finals or winning the event.”

Tiafoe explained, “I saw the draw and thought, man, I’ve got to play Ben Shelton. Since I’m not as highly seeded as before, I wasn’t sure where I’d end up. Playing Ben Shelton is no easy feat, so you can’t overlook that. Once I got through that match, and the draw opened up, I thought, why not take it day by day? Now my feet are in the semi-finals.

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Tiafoe: More Excited About Kevin Hart Than Roger Federer at US Open:

Roger Federer might have been a prominent figure in Arthur Ashe Stadium, but he wasn’t the only one who caught Frances Tiafoe’s eye.

“That was pretty cool,” Tiafoe said about seeing Federer. “To be honest, I was more excited about seeing Kevin Hart than Roger! At Laver Cup, you kind of get used to seeing Federer around, but this was different.

“Kevin Hart was just killing it, looking sharp in his suit, just like he always does. Everything was on point—the suit, the hair. It was hilarious. He’s always popping up wherever he wants and people just love him. It’s amazing how he can show up anywhere and everyone’s thrilled. He’s such a legend. It was awesome to see him. Federer was cool and all, but Kevin Hart was the real highlight.”

The American, currently ranked No. 16 in the PIF ATP Live Rankings, shared that it’s been a long-time dream for him, Taylor Fritz, and World No. 14 Tommy Paul to make deep runs in Grand Slams and vie for major titles.

“We’ve all been knocking on the door,” Tiafoe said. “Taylor’s been bouncing in and out of the Top 10, I was there myself last year, and Tommy’s getting close to the quarters and playing really well. Ben’s also in the mix. It’s just a matter of time. When you put yourself in the right positions, the opportunity is there. The game has changed—making the quarter-finals used to mean facing Rafa and then booking a flight home.

“Now, things are different. No one’s unbeatable anymore, especially as the season wears on and players might be a bit worn out. It’s really exciting. It’s been since 2009 that an American has reached a Slam final. I’m hoping it’s me this time.”

“He’s a tough opponent,” Tiafoe said about Taylor Fritz, who’s reached his first major semi-final. “He’s solid on both sides, has a strong serve, and is moving a lot better now. It’s definitely going to be a challenge.”

Tiafoe acknowledged that their upcoming match will be significant. “It’s a big deal for both of us, playing for a spot in the final. I don’t think any of the matches we’ve played before can compare to this one, so it’s hard to even think about the level we’re about to face.”