Today’s match between Rafael Nadal and Karen Khachanov was one of the most anticipated matches so far at this year’s Australian Open. Many thought it will be a tough challenge for the 20-time Grand Slam champion and it was indeed a battle, but eventually, the Spaniard’s class shone through as he won the match in four sets. 

Rafa already had a head-to-head record of 7-0 before today’s match against the Russian. But, Khachanov is always a tough opponent for any player and he proved it again today against Rafa.

Rafael Nadal is really happy with his level

After 2 hours and 50 minutes of intense tennis, Rafael Nadal finally triumphed against Karen Khachanov by 6-3, 6-2, 3-6, 6-1. Today, Rafa finally played a night match in the Rod Laver Arena after playing two back-to-back matches during the day session.  

Khachanov seemed down and out after losing the first two sets, but the Russian made a spectacular comeback in the third set. However, he could not stand against the 20-time Grand Slam champion in the fourth set. 

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After the match, Rafa talked about his level at the moment. A foot injury sidelined Nadal for most of 2021 and he’s now looking better and better with each game. After getting through to the fourth round, Nadal said on Eurosport, “If you had told me one and a half months ago that I’d play a level like this, I wouldn’t have believed it.”

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Rafa’s level will definitely encourage him to go for his 21st Grand Slam title in Australia. If not in Australia, he can always rely on the French Open, where Rafa is practically invincible. His 13 French Open titles prove that. 

Rafa is hopeful for a better run in Australia

In the fourth round, Rafa can face either Adrian Mannarino or Aslan Karatsev. Both of them will be challenging opponents for Nadal. If he passes that challenge, he can face the no.3 seed Alexander Zverev in the quarter-final, which will test his level truly. 

With Novak Djokovic out, Rafa has a great chance to win the Grand Slam this time around. However, another Russian, Daniil Medvedev, will pose a massive threat to Nadal’s chances. They can only face each other is in the finals and if that happens, it will be one of the best finals we have seen in Australia.

Can Nadal win the Australian Open? Let us know in the comments.

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