Pat Cash criticized Taylor Fritz for his behavior at Wimbledon, stating that Fritz lacks friends on the tour. Fritz is scheduled to play against long-time rival Carlos Alcaraz at the Six Kings Slam. Alcaraz had defeated Fritz in the semi-finals at SW19 earlier this summer.
The tension between Fritz and Arthur Rinderknech began at the French Open in 2023 and escalated during their Wimbledon match in 2024. Fritz’s controversial celebration by shushing the crowd drew criticism. Rinderknech commented on Fritz’s behavior, expressing disappointment in his actions.
Following his victory over Rinderknech, Fritz had a confrontational exchange with him at the net. Cash, a former Wimbledon champion, condemned Fritz’s behavior as inappropriate and suggested that Fritz’s attitude may be affecting his relationships with other players on the tour.
Despite his win over Rinderknech, Fritz was later eliminated from the tournament by Lorenzo Musetti. Fritz is still seeking his first Grand Slam victory, with his best performance being a runner-up finish at the US Open last year.
Fritz is set to face Alcaraz at the Six Kings Slam in Riyadh, where both players aim to secure a spot in the final. Alcaraz, nursing an ankle injury sustained in Japan, is determined to compete at his best despite lingering doubts about his fitness. The upcoming match between Fritz and Alcaraz holds significance for both players, with Fritz seeking redemption for his recent loss to Alcaraz in Japan.