Nick Kyrgios defeated the 16th seed Karen Khachanov 6-2, 7-6 (5), 6-7 (6), 6-7 (7), 7-6 (10-8) on Saturday to reach to the fourth round of the 2020 Australian Open.
It was the longest match the Australian had played and he described the result as one of the best wins of his career, but said he thought he was down and out after Khachanov levelled at two sets all.
“Mate, it was crazy, I don’t even know what to say right now, I have no words for how I’m feeling right now,” Kyrgios said.
“I was losing it mentally a little bit. It wasn’t easy losing the third and losing the fourth after having match points. But my team, my support team, you guys willed me over the line.” Kyrgios added.
Kyrgios had however managed an incredible start to take his speed opponent (6-2). A start confirmed by the winning of the decisive game of the second round 7-6 (5).
The shock of the tie-breaks had only just begun. And in fact, both Kyrgios and Khachanov managed splendid shots in all directions, in strength as in finesse.
They have talent to spare and it showed. In the tie break of the 3rd round, the Australian obtained a first match ball at 6-5. But three points later, the Russian had returned to 2 sets to 1. In the 4th set, not the slightest break to get their teeth into it and it was therefore still a decisive game to decide between them.
And once again, Kyrgios had an opportunity to end the match, just after a set ball for his opponent. But for the second time in a row, Khachanov offered the tie-break (9-7).
Kyrgios allowed himself a point with two shots between the legs, in all relaxation at 4-4 in the 5th set. We don’t do it all over again. But he probably also needs that.
And the end of the match proved him right with a super crazy tie-break. Again, Kyrgios broke away 3-0 but Khachanov led 4-3 then 8-7. Kyrgios therefore scored the last three points of the match (10-8) before sinking to the ground.
