Taylor Fritz cautious after abdominal injury despite Miami Open win: “We’re gonna have to wait and see”

Taylor Fritz Pushes Through Injury to Advance at Miami Open

Taylor Fritz may not be at full strength, but that didn’t stop him from making a strong start at the Miami Open. The world No. 4 secured a 7-6, 6-3 victory over Italy’s Lorenzo Sonego, booking his spot in the Round of 32 despite lingering abdominal issues.

Battling Through Injury

Fritz’s struggles with an abdominal injury began earlier this season, forcing him to withdraw from the Acapulco Open in February. He later revealed that the problem had been bothering him even before the Dallas Open, yet he continued competing through the discomfort.

Heading into Indian Wells, the 26-year-old admitted his injury was not fully healed, though he managed wins over Matteo Gigante and 30th seed Alejandro Tabilo before falling in the fourth round to Jack Draper—who went on to win the tournament.

After his win against Sonego, the 2022 Indian Wells champion provided an update on his recovery. While he feels significantly better, Fritz acknowledged that his condition remains day-to-day.

“A lot better… a lot better,” Fritz said. “I think we’re gonna have to wait and see. The conditions I’m playing in are gonna dictate it. For now, I feel good, but we’ll have to monitor it.”

Next Up: A Familiar Rivalry

Fritz now faces 27th seed Denis Shapovalov in the third round on Monday. The two have clashed ten times, with the Canadian leading their head-to-head 6-4. Their most recent battle at this year’s Dallas Open saw Shapovalov edge Fritz in a 2-6, 6-3, 7-6(2) thriller.

With his injury concerns lingering and a tough opponent ahead, Fritz’s resilience will be put to the test once again in Miami.