Taylor Fritz Battles Through to Australian Open Second Round Despite Early Season Struggles

Fritz Overcomes Rocky Start in Melbourne

American tennis star Taylor Fritz has advanced to the second round of the 2026 Australian Open after defeating Valentin Royer 7-6(5), 5-7, 6-1, 6-3 in a match lasting over three hours. The ninth seed’s victory marks a crucial step forward after a challenging start to the 2026 season that saw him grappling with injury concerns and disappointing results.

Injury Concerns Shadow American’s Campaign

Fritz’s journey to Melbourne has been far from smooth. The former US Open finalist was struggling with a knee injury at the United Cup, which he admitted could force him to take a break later this year. Fritz came into the tournament after intensive rehab in the offseason on his knee for what he described as ‘pretty serious tendonitis’. Despite the physical challenges, the 28-year-old served 24 aces to just three double faults and smacked 65 winners in his opening match.

United Cup Setback Raises Questions

The American’s preparation for the Australian Open was hampered by poor results at the United Cup. Fritz suffered three losses in four matches, losing to Sebastian Baez, Stefanos Tsitsipas and Hubert Hurkacz, with one lone win coming against Jaume Munar. However, Fritz remained optimistic about his form despite the losses, noting that his knee condition was improving.

Championship Aspirations and What Lies Ahead

Fritz has said more than once that he won’t be fulfilled unless he wins a major, demonstrating his ambition at the highest level of tennis. Fritz has won ten ATP Tour singles titles, including a Masters 1000 title at the 2022 Indian Wells Open, and was a finalist at the 2024 US Open and at the 2024 ATP Finals. Fritz will face Vit Kopriva in the Australian Open 2026 second round, as he looks to build momentum and overcome his early season struggles. With a Hall of Famer predicting he could finish 2026 inside the top five, Fritz has everything to play for in Melbourne.