“You are beyond disrespectful” – Fans annoyed as Taylor Fritz subbed for Novak Djokovic in ‘rude’ US Open graphic ft. Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner
Tennis fans expressed outrage over a Tennis TV graphic that replaced Taylor Fritz, the fourth seed, with Novak Djokovic, the seventh seed, in a preview of the 2025 US Open men’s singles draw, labeling it “beyond disrespectful.” The graphic, released on August 21, 2025, highlighted the third quarter featuring Fritz, Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, and others, but prominently displayed Djokovic’s image despite Fritz being the top seed in that section. The snub, particularly at Fritz’s home Grand Slam, sparked a fierce backlash on social media.
The Controversial Graphic
The graphic showcased the men’s singles draw, with Jannik Sinner (No. 1), Alexander Zverev (No. 2), and Carlos Alcaraz (No. 3) correctly represented as top seeds in their quarters. However, in Fritz’s third quarter, which includes Frances Tiafoe, Holger Rune, and Djokovic, Tennis TV opted to feature Djokovic’s image, ignoring Fritz’s higher seeding and his 2024 US Open final run, where he became the first American man to reach a Grand Slam final since 2009. Fans quickly called out the decision, with one X post stating, “This is crazy disrespectful… Taylor Fritz is fourth seed, it’s his quarter, and his home slam” (@Camila, August 21, 2025).
Fan Reactions and Outrage
The backlash was swift, with fans highlighting the perceived slight. One user fumed, “What the f***, why is Djokovic’s picture there when it’s Fritz’s quarter? @TennisTV you are beyond disrespectful” (@Garry). Another expressed frustration, noting, “I bought Tennis TV because Fritz is my favorite player, why is Djokovic in the No. 4 spot?” (@LoraineOliver). Others pointed out the inconsistency, with comments like, “Fritz should be in the picture. He’s No. 4, Nole is No. 7. WTF!” (@RossellaRome). The sentiment underscored Fritz’s growing stature, especially after his 2024 final loss to Sinner, and fans’ desire for recognition of American talent at the US Open, starting August 24, 2025.
Broader Context
The controversy mirrors other tennis narratives, such as Coco Gauff’s coaching changes or Luke Littler’s darts scrutiny, where public perception amplifies pressure. Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, remains a fan favorite, but his lack of competitive matches since Wimbledon and a projected quarterfinal against Fritz fueled the debate. Fritz, riding a career-best season with a Washington title and 22 hard-court wins, is poised to capitalize on his seeding. As one X post noted, “Fritz deserves respect, he’s carrying American tennis” (@TennisFanUSA, August 21, 2025). The graphic’s oversight has only heightened anticipation for Fritz to prove his worth in New York.
