“This can’t happen at an elite level” : Frances Tiafoe criticizes the lack of video replays during the Cincinnati Open amidst controversies
Frances Tiafoe is continuing to be a force to be reckoned with in the world of tennis this year, with the American constantly trying to improve each ATP tour, and his up rise in the ATP rankings reflect that as well. But off-court, the 26-year-old voices his strong opinions on controversial takes which reflects his dominant personality.
Most recently over the course of the Cincinnati Open, Tiafoe has strongly opined on the fact that there were no video replays available in any matches, which lead to controversial decision making and players, coaches and fans all getting frustrated. The American felt that the lack of simple video technology in these times was shocking, that too in such a big event where the top ranked players in the world were set to perform.
Two controversial incidents occurred in Cincinnati in two different matches, first with Taylor Fritz against Brandon Nakashima, and the second one involving Jack Draper and Felix-Auger Aliassime, both overlooked by chair umpire Greg Allensworth. But due to the absence of video replays, both decisions led to controversy and dissatisfaction among the affected players. Frances Tiafoe also took to Instagram to call out the ATP in an attempt to fix such issues.
“Bro this gotta get figured out. This happened to me last week. Do better @atptour. Y’all please do better,” the American wrote on Instagram after the Taylor Fritz’s controversy.
Frances Tiafoe on the US Open having video technology and how his confidence affects his gameplay
The US Open on the contrary will receive high-end video replays, due to it being one of the Grand Slams. Frances Tiafoe was delighted with this news and expressed his opinions and the difference it creates during crucial match moments.
“Yeah, very happy to have that. Very happy to have that. I think it’s very, very big. There’s a lot on the line that you’re playing for. You know, I mean, some things that happened last week, I feel like this can’t happen at an elite level, We’re talking about top of the game, our biggest events outside of slams. I think it’s a really, really good thing. You know, technology is so good now, I think it should be covered in that way for sure,” said the 26-year-old during a press conference.
The American was also asked upon his recent form, to which he explained as to why confidence is necessary to win and that his passion for the game helps get the crowd behind him as well.
“I think there’s a big difference (smiling). I think there’s a massive difference. I think the one thing you see is a lot more joy and excitement when I’m playing when I’m really confident. The level of fear I instill in my opponent, for sure,” said the American.
“Yeah, I find I’m much more aggressive, much more sure of myself. I get the crowd into it, play with much more passion, energy, than when I’m not. I think it’s two different Franceses, for sure, when I’m in that mode. I think, you know, it’s really good for the game, as well.” Tiafoe added.
Both physical and mental prowess are required in a player to make deep tournament runs, and Frances Tiafoe has been doing that throughout the year. In the final Grand Slam of 2024, the American will face against Aleksander Kovacevic in the first round, and we sure hope for a controversy-less matchup.
