WATCH: Dramatic Grigor Dimitrov fails to capitalize on 9 set points as Taylor Fritz cruises past the Bulgarian in Rome

Taylor Fritz beat Grigor Dimitrov to advance to the quarter-finals of the Rome Open.

WATCH: Dramatic Grigor Dimitrov fails to capitalize on 9 set points as Taylor Fritz cruises past the Bulgarian in Rome

Grigor Dimitrov failed to capitalize on the advantage he had (Via Imago/X)

Grigor Dimitrov struggled to put off Taylor Fritz at the Italian Open Round Of 16. After winning one of the most difficult matches in Rome, the Bulgarian failed to replicate the same in the next match. 

It was an exciting matchup between the two talented ATP stars. While Dimitrov was looking to get another deep run, Fritz had just started to prove himself on clay. The first set was anticlimactic as the American asserted his dominance over Dimitrov and won the first set without breaking a sweat. 

YouTube video

However, the Bulgarian had plenty of chances to bounce back in the match. With a set point up for grasp, Dimitrov had an easy volley to force a third set. However, the ball landed just out to add to his misery. Even upon reviewing, the umpire had signaled it out, meaning that Dimitrov had lost 9 set-point opportunities. 

FS Video

Despite the many chances, the Bulgarian managed to win a set point at last and save himself a chance to fight for a position in the quarter-finals. However, he stood no chance against Fritz, who once again went all guns blazing, cleaning the set and the match 6-2, 7-6(11), 6-1.

Fans react to Grigor Dimitrov failing to capitalize on 9 set points and losing to Taylor Fritz

American pro-Taylor Frtiz continues to cruise ahead on clay. After some outstanding performances in Madrid, the American aims to go one step further in Rome.

Taylor Fritz
Taylor Fritz (Via Imago)

He beat Grigor Dimitrov in a three-set exciting matchup to book a spot in the quarter-finals. With that win, Fritz became the first American male to reach at least the quarter-finals in three clay court Masters. The American had reached the quarters of the Monte Carlo Masters twice in 2022 and 2023, made it to the quarters of the Madrid Open this year, and followed it up with another deep run in Rome. 

Here is a look at what the fans had to say about the win.

After a quiet first quarter of the year, Fritz is roaring back in style just before the Italian Open. Having always done well on clay, the American hopes to have more deep runs in the tournaments. Now, the 26-year-old awaits his next opponent, who will be the winner between Alexander Zverev and Nuno Borges. Another great matchup for Fritz, who would hope to continue his form for the rest of the clay season and beyond. 

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