(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Karen Khachanov Ends Incredible Career Streak with First Mid-Match Retirement in Cincinnati
Karen Khachanov’s remarkable run of never retiring mid-match in his ATP career came to an end at the 2025 Cincinnati Masters. The 29-year-old Russian, playing his 529th tour-level match, faced Alexander Zverev in the fourth round but was forced to stop due to injury.
Khachanov, who recently reached the final at the Toronto Masters, trailed 7-5, 3-0 when back pain forced him to call it quits. This marked the first time in his 12-year professional career that he was unable to finish a match, ending a tour-leading streak that showcased his durability and consistency.
The achievement draws parallels to Roger Federer’s incredible record — the Swiss legend played 1,526 matches without retiring mid-play (though he gave five walkovers), a feat that remains unmatched in tennis history.
A Tough Decision Before the US Open
Khachanov had been in fine form, defeating two opponents in Cincinnati after his runner-up finish in Toronto. Against Zverev, he battled well in the first set before the German secured a late break to take it 7-5. Early in the second set, the Russian struggled physically, losing two consecutive service games and experiencing worsening back pain.
With the US Open just around the corner, Khachanov chose to prioritize his health.
“It’s the first time in my career I haven’t finished a match. It’s a tough feeling because fans came to watch us compete,” Khachanov explained. “I felt discomfort in my back, the same injury I’ve dealt with before, and decided not to make it worse ahead of a major tournament.”
Khachanov’s decision underscores the physical demands of the ATP Tour and the importance of preserving fitness for key events. Tennis fans will be watching closely to see if the Russian can recover in time for the final Grand Slam of the year.
