In the debut season of the Netflix series ”Break Point,” there’s a pivotal scene where Taylor Fritz’s coaching staff advises him against participating in the 2022 Indian Wells final.

During warm-ups for what was to be the most crucial match of his career, Fritz suffered an ankle injury that left him unable to put any weight on it. He described the pain as among the worst he experienced. Despite this, he was determined to compete against Rafael Nadal in a tournament he had attended as a child near his San Diego home, aiming for one of the most significant titles outside the Grand Slams.

No matter the repercussions, Fritz was committed to playing.

A few hours later, he emerged victorious, claiming the most pivotal win of his career with a score of 6-3, 7-6.

At 26, Fritz has been on the brink of stardom for years. He often comes across as relaxed and somewhat detached, embodying a laid-back California lifestyle without much outward display of emotion, regardless of his performance.

However, it’s crucial to recognize that Fritz has transformed into a fierce competitor on the ATP Tour.

This transformation became evident on the grand stage last Friday, where he staged a comeback to defeat his close friend and fellow American, Frances Tiafoe, with a score of 4-6, 7-5, 4-6, 6-4, 6-1 in the U.S. Open semifinals.

Fritz demonstrated remarkable resilience, responding effectively when facing challenges and showcasing his skill with a strong finish deserving of the occasion. He has now reached his first Grand Slam final and will compete against the top seed, Jannik Sinner, on Sunday.

This pivotal moment has been a long time in the making for Fritz, who has been the top American player for several years and consistently improved his game on the ATP Tour.

Fritz now has the chance to end a 21-year gap for American players winning Grand Slam titles since Andy Roddick’s U.S. Open victory in 2003.

While Fritz may enter the final as an underdog against Sinner, who won his first Grand Slam title this year at the Australian Open and holds an impressive 54-5 record for the year, the uncertainty surrounding Fritz’s toughness and competitive spirit has been dispelled, especially after his journey through four previous Grand Slam quarterfinal exits leading to this breakthrough at the U.S. Open.

During Friday’s match, Fritz faced an opponent who was in exemplary form. For over three sets, Tiafoe played so exceptionally well that it felt as though Fritz’s strategies had little impact. Fritz, despite performing well, seemed overshadowed by Tiafoe’s brilliance.

Nevertheless, as Fritz went on to break Tiafoe’s serve to win the fourth set and then surged ahead in the fifth, he addressed any doubts regarding his capacity to compete at the elite level. Once viewed as less mobile, Fritz is now covering the court effectively, extending rallies in ways he couldn’t have imagined a few years ago. Previously criticized for faltering in crucial moments, he committed only two unforced errors in the decisive fifth set. Previously considered unfit for enduring grueling matches, he outlasted Tiafoe, who struggled significantly towards the match’s conclusion.

For reasons beyond his control, Fritz has received less attention in America compared to Tiafoe and others. This isn’t surprising, given his background as the son of two former professional tennis players, destined for success in the sport from a young age. His persona might not captivate as much; he has yet to achieve sufficient mainstream success to garner significant attention. In a sport filled with compelling stories and unique backgrounds, Fritz comes off as somewhat unremarkable.

However, his presence in this U.S. Open final reflects his steady progression, personal development, and competitive grit at crucial moments in his career. Will this be enough to capture the interest of American sports fans? We will find out Sunday when viewers tune in to watch if Fritz can secure a Grand Slam title for the United States for the first time in two decades.

Regardless of the outcome, it’s time to acknowledge Fritz as the top American tennis player of his era, now competing on the sport’s grandest stage. This milestone is a remarkable achievement in his career.

Follow YSL News Sports columnist Dan Wolken on social media @DanWolken