Australian Open 2021: Aslan Karatsev breaks numerous records en route fairytale run


Australian Open 2021: Aslan Karatsev breaks numerous records en route fairytale run

Aslan Karatsev

Aslan Karatsev

Russia’s Aslan Karatsev has had one of the most memorable tournaments a professional can have and in the process, has weaved the story of the Australian Open 2021. Playing in his first ever Grand Slam tournament, the 27-year-old has incredibly managed to make it to the semi-final, defying all odds. His latest win came over Grigor Dimitrov in the quarter-final at the Rod Laver Arena.

ADVERTISEMENT

The World No. 114, Karatsev stunned Dimitrov who was struggling with an injury. The Bulgarian took a medical timeout during the third set due to a back injury. Even after the same, he was clearly struggling on court. However, he managed to stay on court, showing incredible heart and courage to complete the match as it ended, 2-6, 6-4, 6-1, 6-2.

Karatsev breaks record after record

Aslan Karatsev was ranked 253rd in the world when the pandemic-induced lockdowns came to an end and the tennis season began. Since then, the Russian has been in imperious touch as he rose to no. 114 and qualified for the Australian Open in Doha. By making his way to the semi-final of the open, he has become the first debutant and fifth qualifier to do so. He will now climb to the top 50 by the time, the new rankings are released.

Reacting after reaching the semi-final, Karatsev said, “It’s an unbelievable feeling. First time playing main draw. First time semis. It’s incredible.” Incredible, indeed.

ADVERTISEMENT

Karatsev will next face Novak Djokovic or Alexander Zverev depending on who wins the quarter final clash between the two. If Karatsev does manage to make it through and win the Grand Slam, it would most certainly be a story for the ages.

Also Read: Australian Open 2021: “It’s an unbelievable feeling. It’s incredible,” Aslan Karatsev after reaching his maiden Grand Slam SF