Former world No. 1 Daniil Medvedev faced a tough defeat in the Monte Carlo Masters, losing 6-3, 7-5 to fellow Russian Karen Khachanov in the last 16 on Thursday. Medvedev, the fourth seed, had previously performed well in Monte Carlo but struggled to find his rhythm against Khachanov.
The match started with a flurry of breaks, but Medvedev's double fault at 5-3 gave Khachanov the edge to claim the first set. In the second set, Medvedev had a chance to turn the tide at 5-4 but failed to capitalize on a set point. Khachanov's strong serving under pressure ultimately sealed the victory.
Medvedev's frustration boiled over after an erroneous call, leading to a heated exchange with the umpire and a point penalty. Khachanov's win marks his first time reaching the last eight in Monte Carlo.
Reflecting on the match, Khachanov acknowledged Medvedev's discomfort on clay courts and capitalized on that knowledge for the win. He noted Medvedev's occasional struggles with composure on the court but remained focused on his own game.
Earlier in the day, 11th seed Alex de Minaur triumphed over Alexei Popyrin in an all-Australian clash, winning 6-3, 6-4.
