Karen Khachanov produced one of the US Open’s biggest upsets by beating third seed Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-7(5), 6-3, 6-2, 6-2. Elena Rybakina also advanced with a straight-sets win over Jessica Bouzas Maneiro.
Khachanov, ranked 50th in the world, recovered after losing the opening set. He then dismantled the 2025 semi-finalist on Louis Armstrong Stadium.
The Russian did not need spectacular tennis. Instead, he stayed patient as Auger-Aliassime’s energy and consistency faded. Khachanov then punished every opening.
He broke serve seven times and saved seven of the nine break points he faced. The win also gave him only his second top-10 victory at a Grand Slam.
For the first time, Khachanov has reached the third round at all four Grand Slam tournaments in the same calendar year.
“I tried to give my best performance, fighting, fighting. I’m super happy to get this win,” Khachanov said.
Auger-Aliassime controlled the early stages. He raced into a 3-0 lead before Khachanov fought back. The Canadian held his nerve, however, and took the opening set in a tiebreak.
Khachanov responded immediately in the second set. He moved 3-0 ahead and protected his advantage.
He then took control of the third set. Khachanov broke at love for a 4-1 lead before serving out the set.
The Russian started the fourth set just as strongly. He moved 4-0 ahead and never allowed Auger-Aliassime back into the match.
Rybakina faced fewer problems against Bouzas Maneiro. The second seed won 6-2, 6-4 in the night session.
She raced into a 3-0 lead and took the opening set in just 30 minutes. Rybakina continued to strike the ball cleanly in the second set.
She did wobble while serving for the match. Bouzas Maneiro broke her serve for the first time in the tournament.
Rybakina responded straight away. She broke back and closed out the match.
The Kazakh arrived in New York with fitness concerns after retiring from Cincinnati. Her opening two wins have therefore provided a positive start as she targets a third Grand Slam title.
“It’s true it wasn’t perfect preparation at all,” Rybakina said. “I’m super happy to be here.”
Khachanov will next face either Benjamin Bonzi or 32nd seed Ignacio Buse. Rybakina will meet Yuliia Starodubtseva, who came from behind to beat Maria Sakkari.
Both players now move closer to the second week. Khachanov, in particular, has transformed his tournament after entering New York with three straight opening-round losses in the US Open tune-up events.
