'So darn good' but not top 5 yet: Roger Federer's former coach urges Frances Tiafoe to find balance

Frances Tiafoe has powered into the French Open quarter-finals without dropping a set, but one of tennis's most respected voices believes the American still has work to do.

Paul Annacone, former coach of Roger Federer and Pete Sampras, praised Tiafoe's ability to rise to the occasion. However, he warned that the 26-year-old must address the inconsistencies in his game if he wants to break into the top five.

Speaking to Tennis Channel, Annacone said: "I just think he is a huge big-time player at the big moments. He loves this stage, and I think his hardest problem, or his biggest challenge, is trying to have that balance where the chasm between good and bad isn’t so vast.".

Tiafoe has hit his stride in Paris, showing a level of poise and precision that has caught many by surprise. The Maryland native has played with sharp focus and renewed confidence; an impressive turnaround given the inconsistency that has marked much of his 2024 season.

Since his second-round exit at the Australian Open, Tiafoe has struggled with consistency, enduring two first-round losses and six second-round departures. This recent surge in form has left many fans wondering why he hasn’t been able to sustain this level more regularly.

Annacone, however, remains confident in Tiafoe’s potential to rank among the world’s elite.

“When he plays like that, I think that’s when he’s a top-five player. When he doesn’t do that he’s going to be between eight and 20 anyway because he’s so darn good. What’s clicked is the equilibrium between the mental and physical stuff. You don’t see Frances Tiafoe winning four matches in straight sets in majors very often. He’s been really good mentally, he needs to stay on that track."

Up next for Tiafoe is Lorenzo Musetti in what will be their sixth career meeting. It is also their first matchup of 2025.

Tiafoe leads the head-to-head 4–3, although Musetti won their only meeting on clay at the 2023 Italian Open. The American, however, has won their last two encounters and will come in with confidence.

Start time (local): Tue, 3 Jun, 1:20 PM

Start time (your time): Tue, 3 Jun, 7:20 PM

Court: Court Philippe Chatrier

Tournament: Roland Garros

Round: Quarterfinal

This will likely be their most high-profile clash, with a place in the Roland Garros semi-finals at stake. Both players are enjoying their deepest runs at the tournament.

If Tiafoe continues his strong form, he could make an even bigger breakthrough. The winner of this match will face either Carlos Alcaraz or Tommy Paul in the semi-finals.

Tiafoe’s raw talent is clear. The question now is whether he can keep building on it, not just in Paris, but throughout the season.