Taylor Fritz’s 2026 season began with a defeat to Sebastian Baez at the United Cup, but it was the American’s on-court celebration rather than the loss itself that got fans talking online.
The World No. 6 fell to Baez in three sets on Saturday, despite taking the opening set. The Argentine mounted a strong comeback, edging a series of close games to secure a 4-6, 7-5, 6-4 victory, his first win over Fritz.
Fritz had appeared in control early in the contest and was a set and a break up when he produced a highlight moment in the second set, lifting a perfectly timed lob over Baez to seal a break of serve.
Following the point, the American drew the ire of fans online by performing the “too small” celebration, a gesture popularized in the NBA by players such as LeBron James.
Baez, who stands at 5 feet 7 inches, is significantly shorter than the 6-foot-5 Fritz. Fans criticized Fritz for the celebration, with many labeling it premature given that he went on to lose the match.
“A new low achieved. Especially after too small,” said one fan.
“Taylor Fritz doing the too small celebration then losing the match. This bum,” stated another.
“Fritz lobbed him pretty bad (Baez swung and missed the smash) and was a break up in the second, then said audibly to his camp “hes too short for the lob” … Baez heard I guess and locked the f*** in,” commented another.
“Fritz did the “too small” gesture to taunt Baez after lobbing his. Proceeds to lose to him. Karma,” another commented.
“I hope Báez does the “too small” gesture after shaking hands,” another fan said.
Fritz And United States To Face Spain In Crucial United Cup Decider
Taylor Fritz and the United States will take on Spain in a decisive final group-stage clash, with the winner advancing to the next round of the United Cup.
Despite Fritz’s opening singles loss, Coco Gauff secured the overall tie for the Americans by winning her singles match and the decisive doubles alongside Christian Harrison.
Fritz is expected to face Jaume Munar in the upcoming encounter, while Gauff is likely to be matched against Sara Sorribes Tormo.
Also read:
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