Do ATP Players Troll Taylor Fritz’s Coach Michael Russell for His ‘Poker Face’? Unpacking This Intriguing US Open Story

Taylor Fritz and his coach, Michael Russell have had an interesting partnership. When Russell initially worked for the United States Tennis Association back in 2019, the two got into contact with each other. However, the two only joined hands a couple of years later when Russell became the full-time head coach of Fritz in November 2021. The American star was just 24 and peaking in his career. However, with Russell by his side, Fritz had the biggest win of his career a few months later when he defeated Rafael Nadal to win the Indian Wells title.

Years later, Fritz is in his first Grand Slam semifinal, another feather in the cap for the duo. Despite having tremendous success with Fritz, Russell hasn’t had an easy time in the dressing room. The former ATP Number 60 is one of the many coaches who don’t express emotions during matches, even if things aren’t going their way. However, Russell takes this to another level, and his ‘poker faces’ have become the subject of hilarious banters in the dressing room. As a result, he often gets trolled for keeping his expressions under wraps during the matches.

In one of the crunch moments during Fritz’s US Open run, the American star won a crucial rally and Russell just clapped his hands mildly, without any expressions. He turned his attention on to the next point and there were no fist-pumps or screams from him. Describing why he becomes a subject of jokes in the dressing room, Russell said, “I literally have no expression. The other players like to tease me about it.”

Nonetheless, Russell has taken this personality trait in his stride and has been impressed with Fritz’s brilliant US Open run. The 46-year-old pointed out the things that stood out for Fritz at this tournament.

Taylor Fritz’s coach reveals the importance of keeping emotions in check

On numerous occasions in the past, we have seen Fritz succumbing to defeat under pressure. As a result, he has yet to lift a Grand Slam trophy in his career, something which isn’t impossible for him given his talent. However, we have seen a different version of Fritz at the ongoing US Open and his coach was proud of the fact that Fritz was able to handle the pressure during crunch situations.

Talking about Fritz digging deep in the tournament, Russell said, “He’s super excited and so is the team. Obviously there’s always a lot of talk of the next American to win a Grand Slam, and pretty far from it still, but one step closer. I thought he did a great job of managing his emotions today. We’re just really proud of the way he handled the situation. [We will have a] mini celebration, as you say, and then tomorrow, just get right back to work.”

However, Fritz will have no time to rest as he takes on Frances Tiafoe in a few hours. The all-American semifinal clash will take place at the Arthur Ashe Stadium.