The ATP events are largely distributed across the globe. Likewise, the season-opening tournaments come as part of the Australian hardcourt swing, inviting Frances Tiafoe as a formidable contestant for the Brisbane International. The American sensation, however, did not travel alone. His girlfriend and Canadian player Ayan Broomfield joined him and subsequently, posted an intriguing insight for fans following her arrival.

The duo started dating each other in 2015 and publicized their relationship in 2018. A week ago, Broomfield survived a major health scare after she was admitted to the hospital. While her health issues remain undisclosed, the Canadian did not shy from expressing her heartfelt gratitude to her loved ones for their unwavering emotional support. She wrote on Instagram: “So this past week was a bit of a circus but I’m so freaking grateful for family, friends, and this community you guys are so amazing.” 

After the doctors cleared her to travel, Broomfield had another update to share with her social media followers. The 27-year-old expressed major dissatisfaction with the nation’s ‘Target’ franchise, claiming that the corporation’s stores in the States have a different vibe, which shockingly was missing at their store in Brisbane. She uploaded a video on TikTok to address her concerns over the $62B giant.

She said, “This is not ‘Target’. I can’t imagine going a week in my life without going to Target so when I saw the sign here in Brisbane I nearly screamed out of joy but, to my surprise, this Australian Target was such a buff. First of all the vibes were not there at all. Target in America has a likeness to it. This Australian target had zero aura. (It) has the same name but is owned by a completely different company and person. It just made me sad because Australians don’t get to experience the euphoria of an American Target like they’re missing out.”

Following Tiafoe’s arrival in Brisbane, the American sensation indulged in a training session and lighthearted conversations with Aussie Nick Kyrgios. However later, he had something more serious to address.

Frances Tifaoe opens up about heartbreaking US Open semifinal loss to Taylor Fritz

American superstar Frances Tifaoe is poised to bring glory to America by ridding the nation of its Grand Slam drought. However, his efforts to script history have all gone in vain. He fought valiantly against Carlos Alcaraz in the last four of the 2022 US Open only to bow out and when the New York Slam came within his reach once again during the 2024 season, he lost the battle to countryman Taylor Fritz in a thrilling five-set showdown in the semis. Upon arriving in Brisbane, Tifaoe reserved a few words to address his emotional loss during a pre-tournament presser:

“That’s not easy, yeah. That wasn’t easy. I thought I could have been in the final there. Thought it was pretty one-sided until that point.” He also paid respect to Fritz’s incredible showcase saying, “Again, you have to tip your hat, man. Taylor battled and he deserved to win. The guy who wins the match at the end of the day deserves to win. Happy it was an American at the end of the day. It was great to see him play a final. That’s only going to light the fire under me to keep going, keep working.”

Tiafoe is seeded fourth in Brisbane and for his opening round act, the former World No. 10 will lock horns with wild card Adam Walton on Monday, December 30.