Who is Taylor Fritz's coach? All you need to know about the American who once earned Jon McEnroe's plaudits for his fighting spirit

Taylor Fritz is currently coached by Michael Russell, who was a former tennis pro himself. Russell never won a single title, with his best Grand Slam performance being reaching the fourth round of the French Open in 2001.

Taylor Fritz is just one win away from becoming the first American male Grand Slam singles champion since Andy Roddick. The 26-year-old reached his maiden Grand Slam final with a five-set win over Frances Tiafoe in the semifinals.

A major reason for Fritz's success is the presence of his coach Michael Russell. Rusell is a former professional tennis player. The once World No. 60 was a prolific performer on the USTA circuit, and was adjudicated as the NCAA's "Rookie of the Year" in 1996.

However, Russell's ATP career was often marred by injuries, especially his troubles with his knee. He did not win any Tour-level titles either in singles or doubles. His one glowing moment came at the 2001 French Open, where as a qualifier he reached the fourth round and faced former World No. 1 Gustavo Kuerten in the final.

Russell showed great tenacity, on the court, winning the first two sets against the Brazilian and had the opportunity to close the match out in their set, but squandered the openings, losing the match in five sets.

After Russel retired in 2015, he openly proclaimed that he would do his best to help American tennis grow. In an attempt to do that, the American started the Michale Russell Training, dedicated to the growth of tennis in American tennis. Apart from Fritz, Russell has coached other American players like Frances Tiafoe, Sam Querry, and Tennys Sandgren.

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Just like Taylor Fritz, Michael Russell was a hard-working player as well

Taylor Fritz emphasized his ability to work hard after reaching his maiden Major final at the US Open. This comes as no surprise as his coach Michael Russell was known for the same. Russell was a 5-foot-8 player on the Tour, which saw him cede his on-court advantage to his opponents, who had a larger physique.

However, just like Fritz, Russell had a great forehand and was an adept baseliner due to his peak levels of fitness. Russell was one of the most tenacious players on the Tour and who brought his highest intensity to every match. Even John McEnroe applauded Russell's fighting spirit back in August 2007, stating that no other player would have a fighting spirit more than the American.

“Nobody is going to try harder on a tennis court than Michael Russell.” said McEnroe (via usopen.org)

Michael Russell will be in Taylor Fritz's player's box at the Arthur Ashe Stadium, when he takes on Jannik Sinner in the US Open final.