Taylor Fritz Addresses 'Annoyed' Fans Over Playing Through Injury at Dallas Open

The American tennis player explains his decision to compete despite visible discomfort.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Taylor Fritz has addressed criticism from fans who were 'annoyed' to see him playing through injury during his run to the 2026 Dallas Open final. The American acknowledged that as a fan, he would likely be frustrated to see someone compete while clearly compromised. However, Fritz said he is trusting his physio's guidance that he can manage the knee issue and continue playing tournaments.

Why it matters

Elite tennis players often have to balance caution and competitiveness when dealing with injuries, and Fritz's situation highlights the difficult decisions they face. While fans invest time and money to see top players at their best, the reality is that many compete through some level of physical discomfort.

The details

Fritz revealed that his main concern has been a knee issue that requires management rather than complete rest. He acknowledged making wrong calls in the past about playing through injury, but believes he can currently compete at a high enough level to justify staying in the draw. The reaction from sections of the crowd has not gone unnoticed, with Fritz understanding why some fans might question his presence on court when he appears compromised.

  • Taylor Fritz has already booked his place in the 2026 Dallas Open final.

The players

Taylor Fritz

An American professional tennis player who has reached the final of the 2026 Dallas Open despite playing through a knee injury.

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What they’re saying

“There have been times, for sure, when I've made the wrong call with it. I think the main concern, obviously, for a long time has been my knee. It's not something that gets better with a lot of stentinitis. You need to just work through it. So I trust my physio, and we think the knee can get better while I'm still playing tournaments if it's something I can play through.”

— Taylor Fritz, Professional Tennis Player (Tuned Into Tennis on X)

“And yeah, the other stuff I feel like I could play through, and it's noted. I think I'd be annoyed, too, as a fan, just probably seeing someone who should probably just pull out. It seems like they're always in here.”

— Taylor Fritz, Professional Tennis Player (Tuned Into Tennis on X)

What’s next

Fritz will compete in the 2026 Dallas Open final on February 18th.

The takeaway

This case highlights the difficult decisions elite tennis players face when balancing caution and competitiveness while dealing with injuries. While fans want to see top players at their best, the reality is that many compete through some level of physical discomfort, leading to understandable frustration from supporters.