Karen Khachanov with victory over Ruud at the tournament in Toronto

Karen Khachanov (ATP 16) confidently started his campaign at the Masters tournament in Toronto. In the round of 16 match, he defeated the world No. 13 Casper Ruud with a score of 6-4, 7-5, having previously beaten Nava and Fucsovics.

Khachanov demonstrated a powerful serve and played reliably in key moments. The Russian tennis player hit 7 aces compared to 9 from his opponent and committed 3 double faults. Despite a lower first-serve percentage (56% versus Ruud’s 68%), Karen won an impressive 97% of points on his first serve and 62% on his second. He converted 3 of 12 break points and confidently won the tiebreak he played.

In total, Khachanov won 71 points against Ruud’s 55 and took 13 games, not allowing his opponent to turn the match around.

In the quarterfinals, Karen will face American Alex Michelsen (ATP 34), who convincingly defeated Learner Tien (ATP 61) in the previous round. Michelsen is known for his aggressive baseline play and ability to challenge more experienced opponents.

Michelsen and Khachanov have already met in January 2025 at the Australian Open, where the American won 3-0 (6-3, 7-6, 6-2).