American tennis star Taylor Fritz launched his grass-court season with a convincing victory over Aslan Karatsev at the Stuttgart Open. Fritz maintained a perfect serving record, ultimately defeating Karatsev 7-6 (4), 6-3 to secure a spot in the quarterfinals.

After saving a set point while down 5-4 in the opening set, Fritz dominated the tiebreak, quickly building a 5-2 lead before clinching the set. He then broke Karatsev's serve at 3-2 in the second set, paving the way for his victory.

Currently ranked 8th globally and the top-ranked American player, Fritz expressed satisfaction with his performance, particularly his serving and returning prowess on grass. He aims to build on his successful 2022 grass-court season, which included winning the Eastbourne title for the second time and reaching the Wimbledon quarterfinals.

As the second seed in Stuttgart, Fritz received a bye in the first round. He will now face Marton Fucsovics in the quarterfinals, following the Hungarian player's victory over Wu Yibing.

Top-seeded Stefanos Tsitsipas is also set to begin his grass-court campaign in Stuttgart, facing veteran Richard Gasquet.