Rolex Paris Masters: sensation Khachanov beat Djokovic

For his first Masters 1000 final, the 22-year-old Armenian-born Russian Karen Khachanov did not shudder. And even created a huge surprise sweeping Novak Djokovic, probably blunted by his difficult victory against Roger Federer the day before.

Khachanov did not miss anything. And especially not his opening match against the Emperor of the Balkans, 31 years, 14 Grand Slams and 32 titles in the category. Confronted with a break point against him from 2^e play, 0-1, 30-40 Khachanov faces and holds the Serb at the start of the game. Alas, it is to better yield his next service under the blows of Djoko, despite four new breakpoints saved (3-1).

Djoko was worn

The new world No. 1 (Monday) is it physically and / or psychically the three hours of the fight against Roger Federer the day before? Still, too impatient, he does not exploit his advantage and let Khachanov unleash at his first opportunity, sending a short forehand cross in the hall (3-2, then 3-3). Obviously, the Djoker has heavy legs, when his young opponent overflows with sap.

Nole only stays afloat thanks to the few gifts from the Ural slugger (4-4). But over the first set, Djokovic begins to draw and Khachanov to conclude the points of a male insurance. The trend is confirmed and soon, the beautiful brown baby of 1.98 m gives himself a break, thanks to a pbading long line (5-4). When serving for the set, Safin's heir does not tremble. Although led 0-30, Khachanov concludes a winning service on the T and leads 7-5 on the hour of play.

The cruel body language of Djokovic

In the 2^e Vedran Martic's protégé – the Croatian coach who trained him in Split at the age of 15, then left and found in 2017 – drives the point. A failed reverse approach to Djoko and Khachanov digs a break, confirmed by following (3-1).

From then on, the body language and the disillusioned smiles of the Serb suggest the Russian's victory. Despite three balls of 5-2 coats, Khachanov keeps the course and wins without shaking in 1h37.

He is the first Russian to win the Bercy side since Nicolai Davydenko in 2006. And puts his steps in the footsteps of Marat Safin, sacred in 2000, 2002 and 2004.