Fritz completes great hat trick in Eastbourne | ATP Tour

Eastbourne

Fritz completes a great treble in Eastbourne

The American has won six of his last seven finals

June 29, 2024

Taylor Fritz’s reputation continues to grow on grass courts. The American wrote a familiar story this Saturday at the Rothesay International in Eastbourne, lifting his third individual trophy at the British ATP 250 to reinforce his authority on the grass. Extending his record at the most fruitful event of his career, the American sends a clear message to the locker room: before the Wimbledon dispute, his shots on the surface have been sharp.

The top seed took control in a controlled final from start to finish, holding off Australian Max Purcell, who was making his debut in a decisive match on the ATP Tour, 6-4, 6-3. With a pace of the ball superior to his opponent’s responses, Fritz hit nine aces and secured 89% of his first serve points (31/35) to come close to victory without suffering a single break. If his strength in Eastbourne needed proof, the show of strength left no room for doubt.

“I’m excited. I always have the feeling of reaching a high level here,” said Fritz, who also conquered Eastbourne in 2019 and 2022. “I had that feeling when I arrived here this week. I’ve done a good job.”

Taylor’s shots were beyond the reach of his rivals on the grass in the south of England. The American has managed to open up to the cup without giving up his serve throughout the tournament, justifying his status as the player to beat with a formidable performance. Fritz showed total coolness, overcoming the five tiebreaks played in the week to put on the champion’s suit.

Fritz, who also won Delray Beach in February, wins multiple titles in a single season for the third consecutive year. The Californian moves up one spot to No. 12 in the PIF ATP Live Rankings, regaining his No. 1 status as the American.