Karen Khachanov Reaches Third Round of Australian Open After Straight-Sets Victory Over Benjamin Bonzi
Khachanov Defeats Bonzi 6-4, 6-3, 6-3 to Advance in Melbourne
Russian tennis star Karen Khachanov has advanced to the third round of the Australian Open after defeating Benjamin Bonzi of France in straight sets on Thursday.
Khachanov, the 20th seed in the tournament, won 6-4, 6-3, 6-3 at Melbourne Park's John Cain Arena. The Russian fired 10 aces and won 80% of his first-serve points in the match that lasted for one hour and 50 minutes.
Khachanov Continues Good Form
Khachanov, who reached the semifinals of the US Open last year, has been in good form in the lead-up to the Australian Open. He won the Adelaide International 1 title earlier this month by defeating world number one Novak Djokovic in the final.
"I'm feeling good," Khachanov said after his win over Bonzi. "I've been working hard in the off-season and I'm happy with the way I'm playing so far this year."
Bonzi Puts Up Good Fight
Bonzi, ranked 54th in the world, put up a good fight against Khachanov. The Frenchman saved two break points in the first set and three in the second set.
However, Khachanov's power and consistency proved to be too much for Bonzi. The Russian broke Bonzi's serve once in each set to secure the victory.
Khachanov Faces Kecmanovic in Third Round
Khachanov will face Miomir Kecmanovic of Serbia in the third round on Saturday. Kecmanovic defeated Mackenzie McDonald of the United States in straight sets in the second round.
"Kecmanovic is a very good player," Khachanov said. "He's beaten some good players this week. I'll need to be at my best to beat him."
Conclusion
Karen Khachanov is in good form and is a threat to win the Australian Open. He has a tough match against Miomir Kecmanovic in the third round, but if he can win that match, he will be a favorite to reach the quarterfinals.
Khachanov is one of the most exciting young players in the world and he is capable of great things. He will be hoping to make a deep run at the Australian Open and show that he is one of the best players in the world.
