Taylor Fritz continues dream run in Memphis

 

Taylor Fritz has completed a dream run to the Memphis Open final with a remarkable three-set win over Ricardas Berankis.

Lithuanian Berankis looked to be cruising after winning the first set easily, but the explosive American teen came out strong in the second and third to seal a 2-6 6-3 6-4 win.

Just playing in the semi-final was a record achievement for the 18-year-old, who became the youngest American to make an ATP semi since Michael Chang won at Wembley in 1989 at the age of 17.

And Fritz demonstrated all the qualities that make him one of the hottest prospects in tennis, in a win that will see the teen break into the top 100.

The American put his massive serve to good use against Berankis, serving up 17 aces over the one hour, 40 minute match and won 71 per cent of points on his first serve.

Berankis actually bettered that statistic, winning 76 per cent of first serve points, but it was in the clutch moments of the match that Fritz showed his class.

Fritz saved four out of nine break points compared to the Lithuanian's effort of three from eight.

Fritz said he was honoured to make the final as he continued his amazing form.

"I'm just so happy to be here and playing the way I am," Fritz said.

"I'm just so excited to continue and keep moving forward."

Fritz will have to wait until Sunday to find out who he plays in the final, with three-time defending champion Kei Nishikori taking on Sam Querrey in the second semi-final.