Taylor Fritz Addresses Criticism for Playing Through Injuries

The American tennis star opens up about managing his health and competing despite physical concerns.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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World No. 7 Taylor Fritz has advanced to the final of the Dallas Open, despite facing criticism from fans over his decision to compete while managing injuries. In a recent interview, Fritz addressed these concerns, acknowledging that he has made mistakes in the past by playing too soon after injuries. However, he explained that his current knee issue requires a different approach, as it does not improve with rest. Fritz expressed confidence in his ability to play through the injury this week, while also validating the perspective of worried fans who feel he should prioritize his long-term fitness.

Why it matters

Fritz's openness about his injury management highlights the delicate balance professional athletes face between competing at the highest level and preserving their long-term health. As one of the top American tennis players, Fritz's decisions have implications for his career trajectory and the sport's popularity in the United States.

The details

Fritz reached the Dallas Open final after defeating Marin Čilić in the semifinals. However, his physical health has been a constant concern, with fans questioning his decision to compete in tournaments despite recurring injuries. In the past, Fritz has acknowledged making mistakes by playing too soon after injuries, such as an oblique injury in 2025 that forced him to withdraw from the Mexican Open in Acapulco. Regarding his current knee injury, Fritz explained that it requires a different approach, as it does not improve with rest. He expressed confidence in his ability to play through the issue this week, stating that his performance has not been hindered.

  • In February 2025, Fritz played the Dallas Open and then attempted to defend his title at the Delray Beach Open the following week, despite suffering an oblique injury in the Australian Open just weeks prior.
  • At the 2026 Australian Open, Fritz struggled with recurring knee and oblique injuries, leading many to expect him to rest before competing in Dallas.

The players

Taylor Fritz

The World No. 7 American tennis player who has advanced to the final of the Dallas Open despite facing criticism over his decision to compete while managing injuries.

Ben Shelton

The World No. 9 American tennis player who will face Fritz in the Dallas Open final.

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What they’re saying

“There are times when it's been completely valid. Like, if I look back at last year, I had an oblique injury right around this time. It happened after the Australian Open, and I should not have played maybe here, and I should not have played Delray the next week. I went to Acapulco and then pulled out there. I shouldn't have gone there. So, yeah, there've been times for sure where I've made the wrong call with it.”

— Taylor Fritz, Tennis Player (profootballnetwork.com)

“I think the main concern, obviously, for a long time has been my knee. It's not something that gets better with rest, stand by this, like, you need to just work through it. If I wasn't playing, I'd be doing all the same: Rehab, strengthening stuff that I am doing here before all my practices and everything, so, I trust my physio, and we think that he can get better while I'm still playing tournaments.”

— Taylor Fritz, Tennis Player (profootballnetwork.com)

“Yeah, 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 seemed like they're always severe.”

— Taylor Fritz, Tennis Player (profootballnetwork.com)

What’s next

The championship match between Taylor Fritz and Ben Shelton at the 2026 Dallas Open is scheduled for Sunday, February 16.

The takeaway

Fritz's openness about his injury management highlights the difficult decisions professional athletes face in balancing their competitive drive with long-term health concerns. His willingness to acknowledge past mistakes and validate fan perspectives shows a mature approach to navigating these challenges, which could resonate with both supporters and critics.