Roger Federer’s former coach Paul Annacone noticed a significant change made by Taylor Fritz this season that helped him have the best year of his career.

Fritz’s final match of 2024 was a victory against Alex de Minaur in the quarterfinals of the Davis Cup Final. However, the American team still withdrew from the tournament after an extremely controversial doubles decision by captain Bob Bryan.

This shouldn’t distract from Fritz’s superb season. He played the best tennis of his career finish 2024 as world number 4one place above Daniil Medvedev. This is the 27-year-old’s highest ranking ever.

Fritz’s most notable achievement was reaching the final of the US Open. That run included wins over Alexander Zverev and Casper Ruud and an epic five-set semifinal triumph over compatriot Frances Tiafoe.

World number 1 Jannik Sinner was too strong in the final. The Italian beat Fritz in straight sets, who was emotional after failing to become the first American to win the US Open since Andy Roddick in 2003.

Fritz also reached the final of the ATP Finals. His journey was similar to that of the US Open: he beat Alexander Zverev, but Sinner was still too good in the final and won the title at home in Turin.

Although Fritz has been a very good player for several players, the Grand Slam finalist’s consistency throughout 2024 has been the best of his career. He dug deep to win several matches.

Annacone told Tennis Channel’s Inside-In podcast that winning matches without playing exceptional tennis was one of Fritz’s weaknesses, but he has improved a lot to overcome disjointed competition in 2024.

“Taylor wins a lot of matches playing average tennis for him, whereas before what happened I think it would frustrate him because his level wasn’t high enough.”

“Now he realizes, ‘I can get through these matches playing average tennis for me, and give myself a chance to move forward in the week and then I’ll play better in the big matches.’ been just one game.’ “.

Federer’s former coach, who is himself an American, said he is very proud of Fritz for acquiring this skill and for his achievements throughout 2024, and believes the US Open finalist has now the feeling of having his place on the biggest stages.

“It’s a conglomeration of all these great moments where he looks more and more comfortable. And now, rightly so, he feels like he belongs here. I’m really, really proud of him , the way he goes through his process to get where he is and the fact that he’s been so resilient…”

Fritz’s huge serve and terrific shots meant his talent was never in doubt. However, resilience and victories were not considered one of the strengths of the American number 1 before 2024.

The eight-time ATP title winner in 2024 has changed those perceptions. He’s come through several tough games and has built a new level of resilience that will certainly serve him well in 2025 and beyond.