In a thrilling upset that shook the hard courts of Canada, Karen Khachanov defeated World No. 4 Alexander Zverev to reach the ATP Toronto Masters 2025 final, marking one of the most significant victories in the Russian’s recent career. With a blend of raw power, relentless baseline aggression, and ice-cold nerves, Khachanov secured the win in straight sets: 7-6(4), 6-4.
A Statement Win on Canadian Soil
Zverev came into the semifinal as the clear favorite, riding high on recent success and a commanding serve. But Khachanov, the 28-year-old powerhouse from Moscow, had other plans. From the first ball, he played with intent and conviction, never allowing Zverev to find his rhythm. With this victory, Khachanov has now reached his first ATP Masters 1000 final since Paris 2018, where he famously beat Novak Djokovic.
“I stayed focused, stuck to my plan, and tried to be fearless,” Khachanov said post-match. “Zverev is one of the best, but today was my day.”
First Set: Neck-and-Neck Battle
Both players held serve with authority throughout the opening set, peppering the court with aces and thunderous forehands. The difference came in the tiebreak, where Khachanov’s ability to take control of short points and capitalize on Zverev’s second serve errors gave him the edge. A booming inside-out forehand sealed the set 7-6(4), sending a strong message.
Second Set: Breaking Through
Zverev tried to mount a comeback in the second set, but struggled with inconsistency and unforced errors at crucial junctures. Khachanov, on the other hand, remained rock-solid. He earned a decisive break in the seventh game, using his deep returns and flat groundstrokes to pressure Zverev into mistakes. Serving for the match at 5-4, Khachanov closed it out with confidence, ending with an ace that punctuated a commanding performance.
Tactical Brilliance from Khachanov
Khachanov’s win wasn’t just about power — it was about precision and patience. He targeted Zverev’s backhand, forced him wide on second serves, and kept the rallies short to deny the German any rhythm. His improved movement and defensive skills also stood out, helping him neutralize Zverev’s potent baseline game.
What This Means for Khachanov
This win signals a major resurgence for Khachanov, who has battled injuries and dips in form in recent years. Now ranked outside the top 15, the Russian will see a significant boost after reaching the Toronto final. More importantly, the victory proves he can still go toe-to-toe with the sport’s elite.
Final Test Awaits
Khachanov will now face Ben Shelton, the breakout American star who defeated Taylor Fritz in the other semifinal. Their upcoming clash promises a battle of youth versus experience, and power versus precision — a fitting finale to an electrifying tournament.
Match Summary:
- Winner: Karen Khachanov
- Score: 7-6(4), 6-4
- Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Aces: Khachanov – 12, Zverev – 9
- Break Points: Khachanov converted 1/2, Zverev 0/3
With the Toronto crowd behind him and confidence surging, Karen Khachanov will now look to capture his second ATP Masters 1000 title, proving that the Russian giant is far from done at the top level.