Carlos Alcaraz has once again reached the semifinals at the China Open, showcasing his formidable skills in a compelling match against Karen Khachanov. The Spanish sensation secured a convincing 7-5, 6-2 victory on Monday, demonstrating his dominance throughout the 96-minute contest at the ATP 500 event in Beijing. While Khachanov delivered several impressive moments, he was ultimately unable to contend with Alcaraz’s relentless baseline play and aggressive return game.
“I always strive to be aggressive and hit strong shots,” Alcaraz remarked after the match. “I feel confident in showing that. It’s about trying again and again. Right now, I’m feeling good.”
Alcaraz, who has now won seven consecutive matches on tour, expressed satisfaction with his performance: “Everything has been going well in my recent matches, so I can’t complain. I know I need to keep pushing. I’m hitting the ball effectively, moving well, and not allowing my opponents to showcase their best tennis. The match flows in my style, which is exactly how I want it to be in every contest.”
As the second seed, Alcaraz converted four of the 12 break points he earned against Khachanov, according to Infosys ATP Stats. This victory marks his 46th tour-level win of 2024 and elevates him to No. 2 in the PIF ATP Live Rankings, surpassing Alexander Zverev. Alcaraz has also moved ahead of Zverev in the PIF ATP Live Race To Turin, solidifying his position in the battle for the ATP Year-End No. 1 title presented by PIF. He trails current leader Jannik Sinner by 2,890 points, though Sinner has a chance to extend his lead later on Monday when he faces Jiri Lehecka in his quarter-final match.
In the semifinals, Alcaraz will face third-seeded Daniil Medvedev, who advanced after defeating Flavio Cobolli 6-2, 6-4. Alcaraz holds a 5-2 lead in their Lexus ATP Head2Head series and has triumphed in both of their encounters this season, winning at Indian Wells and Wimbledon.
“It’s always a challenge to face Medvedev,” Alcaraz acknowledged. “I’ve had some great matches against him this year and in previous years. I’m ready to embrace that challenge and play my best tennis. Matches against him are always a battle, filled with long rallies, but I’m prepared for whatever comes.”
As the tournament progresses, fans eagerly anticipate the high-stakes semifinal showdown between two of the game’s brightest stars, each aiming for a spot in the final.
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