Taylor Fritz saved a match point to defeat Alex Michelsen 6-1, 3-6, 7-6(6) in the quarterfinals of the DC Open in Washington on Friday. The third seed claimed his first career victory over his compatriot after three consecutive defeats.
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A painful knee and a match point saved
Fritz dominated the opening set 6-1 in just 25 minutes, imposing his serve and powerful forehand against an overwhelmed Michelsen. The world No. 40 found his rhythm in the second set, capitalising on a dip in Fritz's level to draw level at one set apiece with a commanding 6-3.
The third set took a dramatic turn when Fritz felt pain in his left knee during a rally. The world No. 10 called for the physiotherapist during a changeover, sparking concern among the Washington crowd. Despite the visible discomfort, the 28-year-old American held firm and fought his way into the tiebreak.
The decider produced the most intense moment of the week in Washington. Michelsen earned a match point but fired an unforced error under maximum pressure. Fritz seized the lifeline, closing out the tiebreak 8-6 to secure his first victory in four meetings against his younger compatriot.
An all-American semifinal awaits
Fritz will face Brandon Nakashima on Saturday after the American dispatched defending champion Alex De Minaur 7-6(5), 6-4. The 24-year-old recorded his fourth career top-10 victory, confirming his excellent form. It will be the first Fritz-Nakashima clash of the season, an all-American showdown that promises a thrilling spectacle in the capital.
Key figures
Fritz wins 6-1, 3-6, 7-6(6) for his first victory in four meetings against Michelsen. The third seed is projected to rise to No. 9 in the world on Monday, overtaking Ben Shelton as the top-ranked American. Nakashima reaches his fourth semifinal of the 2026 season after eliminating defending champion De Minaur.
