US Open: Nadal takes on Khachanov in third round

New York: World number one Rafael Nadal will look to book his place in the pre-quarterfinals of the ongoing US Open while facing Karen Khachanov of Russia in their third-round clash of the men’s singles event here at Arthur Ashe Stadium on Friday.

The 32-year-old had earlier thrashed Canadian player Vasek Pospisil 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 in the second round of the tournament.

Heading into the match, Nadal is on a roll as he has won 24 of the last 25 matches that he played.

As far as head to head record is concerned, both the players have met four times and the Spaniard holds a 100 per cent winning record against Khachanov.

The Russian player, who has never won even a single set against the defending champion, will look to keep it tight and give a strong competition to his opponent.

Meanwhile, Serbian tennis player Novak Djokovic has entered the third round after defeating Tennys Sandgren of America 6-1, 6-3, 6-7, 6-2 in their round of 64 clash.

In women’s event, Maria Sharapova of Russia edged past Romanian player Sorana Cirstea 6-2, 7-5 to get into the third round of the tournament.

[source_without_link]ANI[/source_without_link]