How Gaming Banter Inspired a Tennis Star’s Run at Wimbledon
American tennis star Taylor Fritz credits his deep Wimbledon run to a surprising source — trash talk in League of Legends. The 26-year-old semifinalist says taunts from online players fired up his competitive spirit, motivating him to level up both in-game and on the court.
“Someone told me to ‘touch grass’ after a bad LoL match,” Fritz said. “Now here I am, literally on grass, in the Wimbledon semifinals.”
The quote quickly went viral. Gamers and tennis fans alike found humor in the irony: a common online insult now echoes on one of tennis’s biggest stages.
A Pro Athlete in the Top 12% of League Players
Fritz isn’t just a casual gamer. He ranks in the top 12% of global LoL players, a remarkable feat for someone already competing at the highest level in another sport.
While some athletes avoid distractions, Fritz says gaming helps him focus. League of Legends offers fast-paced decision-making and strategic depth — the kind of mental edge he believes sharpens his tennis game too.
Why League of Legends Works for Fritz
For Fritz, gaming isn’t a distraction — it’s a tool. After long training days, he logs on for a mental reset. The challenge of League, he says, mirrors the pressure of match points. And the trash talk? It adds fuel.
His story shows how mental toughness can come from unexpected places. The toxic energy of online gaming gave him something to prove — and he’s proving it at Wimbledon.
Athletes and Esports: The New Normal?
Fritz’s openness about gaming reflects a broader trend. NFL stars stream Call of Duty. F1 drivers practice on racing sims. More and more elite athletes are blending esports into their routines.
With Fritz’s success in both arenas, others may follow. Gaming is no longer just a guilty pleasure — it’s becoming part of the performance toolkit.
Final Serve
Taylor Fritz’s Wimbledon run shows that inspiration can come from anywhere — even an insult in a virtual game. Whether it’s a cross-court winner or a top-tier LoL match, he’s proving that passion, wherever you find it, can drive success.
