Uploaded August 2026 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
After sealing his first Masters 1000 title with the men’s final win over American Frances Tiafoe, World No. 11 Arthur Fils is keen to keep his momentum as he faces Stefanos Tsitsipas in his US Open opener.
Speaking at his pre match press conference on Saturday, the Frenchman said he feels ready for the five set challenge, even though he admits he still needs to find his rhythm at the Slams.
“It’s completely different. I think it’s a different sport. We played only two Slams in the last two years because I’ve been injured a lot, so I have to find myself, to find my rhythm in a Slam. For now, I haven’t seen it, but I still have ten more years to play tennis, so I think I’m going to find it at some point.”
Asked whether he feels people perceive him differently after his breakthrough, Fils said he has always felt respected, even if a maiden Masters 1000 title can change things.
“Of course, winning a title — a major title — makes a difference, but I think they still look at me with the same respect; that doesn’t really change much. Still, it’s the first time I’m arriving at a Grand Slam with a title under my belt, with that kind of momentum, and trying to do my best here. It’s a new experience.”
After sealing his first Masters 1000 title with the men’s final win over American Frances Tiafoe, World No. 11 Arthur Fils is keen to keep his momentum as he faces Stefanos Tsitsipas in his US Open opener.
Speaking at his pre match press conference on Saturday, the Frenchman said he feels ready for the five set challenge, even though he admits he still needs to find his rhythm at the Slams.
“It’s completely different. I think it’s a different sport. We played only two Slams in the last two years because I’ve been injured a lot, so I have to find myself, to find my rhythm in a Slam. For now, I haven’t seen it, but I still have ten more years to play tennis, so I think I’m going to find it at some point.”
Asked whether he feels people perceive him differently after his breakthrough, Fils said he has always felt respected, even if a maiden Masters 1000 title can change things.
“Of course, winning a title — a major title — makes a difference, but I think they still look at me with the same respect; that doesn’t really change much. Still, it’s the first time I’m arriving at a Grand Slam with a title under my belt, with that kind of momentum, and trying to do my best here. It’s a new experience.”
