GET TO KNOW, BIG FOE
GET TO KNOW,
BIG FOE
Dynamic. Determined. Fearless. Frances Tiafoe is not just a tennis star; he’s a trailblazer redefining the game. During the 2025 Australian Open, Cadillac ANZ caught up with Frances to discuss his journey, his inspirations, and how he stays driven on and off the court.
YOUR TENNIS JOURNEY
Q. You’ve come a long way from humble beginnings to becoming a top tennis star. How has that journey shaped your mindset on and off the court?
A. I think above all it’s built resilience and given me perspective. I know what it took to get me here, for myself and for my family, so I’m always hungry and always grateful.
AUSTRALIAN OPEN
MEMORIES
Q. What’s some of your most memorable moments playing at the Australian Open?
A. The one that stands out is the Nadal AO Quarterfinal match in 2019. I was so young and that was such a good test and I learned so much from that match.
Q. What do you enjoy most about visiting Australia? Have you had a chance to explore beyond the tennis courts?
A. I love the energy here in Australia. The summer atmosphere and the passion and vibe that the fans bring to our matches is really exciting for us as players. I don’t have much time away from the courts but I like to try to find some new restaurants in the evenings.
PERFORMANCE AND DRIVE
Q. Tennis is as much a mental game as it is physical. How do you stay focused and motivated during high-pressure matches?
A. The preparation is everything. When I get out there and I feel fit and prepared everything just kind of flows and you can really just enjoy the battle and the atmosphere.
INNOVATION & EXCELLENCE
Q. With advancements in sports technology and training, how has your approach to tennis evolved over the years?
A. It hasn’t changed too much. We definitely have more access to stats and great data these days so my team and I take advantage of that. We also have on court coaching now which is something we’re all still getting used to.
Q. At Cadillac, we believe in pushing boundaries and redefining excellence. How do you define excellence in your life and career?
A. Constant improvement. As long as you’re pushing yourself to work consistently hard, finding ways to improve, and you’re enjoying the journey, that’s excellence and success to me.
OFF COURT PASSIONS
Q. How do you unwind when you're not training or competing? Any hobbies or interests outside of tennis?
A. Just like to relax, play some music and spend as much time as I can with my friends and family.
GOALS FOR 2025
Q. What are your biggest ambitions for the 2025 season, and how are you preparing to achieve them?
A. Like every year, I want to win a Grand Slam. For us Americans, that’s everything, but I really also want to be consistent and continue to improve.
ROLE MODELS AND LEGACY
Q. Who has been your biggest influence in your career, and how do you hope to be remembered in the world of tennis?
A. It’s hard to say. I’ve had so many great role models in tennis and sport. I’ve always admired my parents above all. They both worked so hard to give my brother and I the opportunities we have today so they’ve always been my main role models.
INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION
Q. You’ve been an inspiration to young athletes globally. What advice would you give aspiring tennis players in Australia chasing their dreams?
A. Just keep working hard. Nothing comes easy, especially in tennis. You have to persevere and believe that with consistent hard work you’ll keep improving.