After a four hours and 22 minutes long epic clash, World No 1 Rafael Nadal on Friday defeated 22-year-old Karen Khachanov (Russia) to qualify for the round of 16 of the US Open at the Arthur Ashe Stadium here.
One of the most riveting matches of the year saw Khachanov pushing Nadal to the edge. The defending champion's fighting spirit was on full display and he was forced to find his top gear as Khachanov showed his career best performance.Nadal won 5-7, 7-5, 7-6(7), 7-6(3).
Nadal survived an offensive onslaught from his big-hitting opponent, who launched 66 winners, including 22 aces.
The 32-year-old had earlier thrashed Canadian player Vasek Pospisil 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 in the second round of the tournament. Nadal has now won 25 of his past 26 matches this year.
Nadal will next take on Georgia's Nikoloz Basilashvili, who overcame Guido Pella 6-3, 6-4, 1-6, 7-6(4) to reach the Round of 16 at a Grand Slam for the first time. The match will be played on Sunday.
Disclaimer: No Business Standard Journalist was involved in creation of this content
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors
Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share
Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor
Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements
Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app