Taylor Fritz: US Open Champion Talks About League of Legends and His Tennis Journey

A Passion for League of Legends

Taylor Fritz, the US Open champion, stands out not only for his success on the tennis court but also for his passion for the video game League of Legends. Let’s explore his thoughts and experiences in this fascinating crossover of sports and gaming. Fritz has spent significant time immersed in the world of League of Legends, especially during his visits to the World Championships in Paris and London.

 “It’s one of my favorite things to do when I’m not competing in tennis,” he shared. With a naturally competitive spirit, Fritz is always seeking new challenges beyond tennis. “This has nothing to do with sponsors; it’s purely personal. I want to see the best players,” he said about attending major events. Reflecting on the finals at the O2 Arena, Fritz remarked, “It was one of the most incredible events I’ve ever attended.”

The “Jungler” Role in the Game

In League of Legends, Fritz takes on the role of the “jungler,” a position requiring acute awareness of various elements in the match. However, he avoids playing the game before tennis matches, explaining, “It’s mentally exhausting.” Fritz understands that the intense focus required in the game could impact his on-court performance. This balance between his passions showcases his commitment to excelling in both gaming and tennis.

Recent Tennis Achievements

Recently, Fritz has delivered impressive performances on the tennis court. Reaching the US Open final marked him as the first American male player to reach a Grand Slam final since Andy Roddick in 2009. “It’s a huge accomplishment,” he said of the milestone. At 27 years old, Fritz has reached a career-high ranking of World No. 5. Confident about his future, he added, “My career has always progressed steadily, improving little by little each year.” His determination and hard work are evident in his rise through the ranks of professional tennis.

Learning from Pete Sampras

Growing up in San Diego, Fritz was greatly influenced by fellow Californian and tennis legend Pete Sampras. He emulated Sampras’s serve, even lifting his toe during the motion. “It’s my version of his serve,” Fritz explained. Notably, one of his coaches, Paul Annacone, previously worked with Sampras. This connection to a tennis great has likely shaped Fritz’s approach to the game and his development as a player.

Challenges in Starting Tennis

Despite coming from a tennis family, Fritz admitted that he initially “hated playing tennis” as a child. “I wanted to play every other sport,” he confessed. Over time, however, he developed a love for the sport, especially when competing in tournaments. “I didn’t enjoy tennis as a kid, but I loved going out and competing,” he explained, highlighting his eventual shift in attitude. This change has been pivotal in his journey to becoming a top player.

Personal Life and His Girlfriend

Fritz’s personal life is equally intriguing, as he is dating Morgan Riddle, a social media influencer. Although he finds public photo shoots with her a bit embarrassing, he values their relationship deeply. “Sometimes, you just have to do what you have to do. She also takes great photos of me,” he joked. Taylor Fritz represents the perfect blend of athleticism and personal passion. From dominating on the tennis court to exploring new challenges in League of Legends, Fritz continues to push his boundaries and grow. Fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter in his promising career!