NEW YORK—Post-match press conferences aren’t usually places of refuge, even for match winners. But when Frances Tiafoe walked into the main interview room inside Arthur Ashe Stadium on Wednesday, he was overjoyed.
“A.C.,” Tiafoe said with relief at least twice, as the cool indoor air greeted the victorious American.
Even after a shower, Tiafoe had a hard time getting the oppressive heat and humidity off his mind. The conditions contributed to the retirement of his second-round opponent, Alexander Shevchenko, early in the third set.
“How warm it was today, obviously, you know, I’m a competitor and never want to win on retirement but I'll take that,” Tiafoe began his presser.
Then Tiafoe took questions from reporters—and let’s just say the agreeable environment made the American even more amiable and chatty than usual.