“When I was young, I was watching you a lot,” Arthur Fils honors Tiafoe in Cincinnati speech

24 August 2026

When-I-was-young-I-was-watching-you-a-lot-Arthur-Fils-honors-Tiafoe-in-Cincinnati-speech — @Tennis Channel

Key Takeaways

Defeated Frances Tiafoe 6-3, 1-6, 6-0
First Masters 1000 title of career
Emotional thanks to family, team, and fans

Respect for his opponent

Arthur Fils opened his speech by addressing Frances Tiafoe, showing admiration for the American’s career and presence in the final. “When I was young, I was watching you a lot on TV. You were one of the guys that made me turn on the TV,” Fils said, expressing gratitude for sharing the stage with Tiafoe.

Appreciation for the crowd

The Frenchman acknowledged the Cincinnati fans, even though many were cheering for his opponent. “Even if today you were not cheering for me, it was a hell of a week,” he remarked, highlighting the atmosphere that made the tournament special.

Tribute to his team and family

Fils dedicated much of his speech to his team and family, recognizing their sacrifices and support. “Guys, unbelievable. I have no words except thank you,” he said to his coaches and staff. He also mentioned his father, who was not present, and his family back in Europe. “I’ve been traveling with my dad every week. He’s not here now, but I just want to say thanks to him as well,” Fils added.

Gratitude to Cincinnati and organizers

Closing his remarks, Fils thanked the tournament and city for hosting him during his breakthrough week. “Thanks to Cincinnati, thanks to the tournament. It’s been a hell of a job,” he concluded, lifting the trophy with pride after his historic victory.

Frances Tiafoe in 2026

Frances Tiafoe

46 - 22win/loss

Hard

28-14

I Hard

1-1

Clay

8-5

Grass

9-2

Rank
8

High
8

28 year old

LWLWWWWWL

2026 Highlights

Ranked no.23, Tiafoe played his last encounter on the 23^rd of August when he lost to world no.21 Arthur Fils 6-3 1-6 6-0 in the final in Cincinnati (draw).

During this season Tiafoe has achieved a composed 37-17 match record. Frances clinched 1 title in Halle.

Cincinnati

Tiafoe's Record

Arthur Fils in 2026

Arthur Fils

40 - 15win/loss

Hard

27-9

I Hard

2-2

Clay

10-3

Grass

1-1

Rank
10

High
9

22 year old

LWWWWLWWW

2026 Highlights

Now the world no.21, Arthur played his last match on the 23^rd of August when he beat world no.23 Francis Tiafoe 6-3 1-6 6-0 in the final in Cincinnati to win his 5^th career title.

This season the French player has a 33-10 record. The French player conquered 2 titles in 2026 in Barcelona and Cincinnati.