Carlos Alcaraz Dominates Karen Khachanov 6–1 in High-Intensity US Open Practice Set

 Defending US Open champion Carlos Alcaraz sent a stern warning to the rest of the draw after crushing World No. 8 Karen Khachanov 6–1 in a live practice set at Flushing Meadows.

The 23-year-old Spaniard, who missed the French Open and Wimbledon due to a right wrist injury sustained in April, showed no signs of physical hesitation as he unleashed high-octane tennis on the hard courts of New York.

Practice Set Highlights: Pure Dominance

The high-intensity training session drew thousands of fans to Arthur Ashe Stadium and tens of thousands on live streams. Alcaraz took immediate control, breaking Khachanov’s serve early and racing through the set.

• Explosive Forehand: Alcaraz’s right wrist was fully tested on heavy topspin forehands, striking winners cleanly from both wings.

• Movement & Agility: Showing zero hesitation on court coverage, his sliding and defense-to-offense transitions looked completely restored.

• Serving Rhythm: While Alcaraz has been building back serve speed throughout the week, his placement and kick serves kept Khachanov under relentless pressure.

Pre-Tournament Readiness & First-Round Test

Alcaraz enters the final Grand Slam of the season seeking to defend his crown. He opens his singles campaign on Monday against dangerous Russian opponent Roman Safiullin.

Having shaken off initial rust during mixed doubles action alongside Serena Williams earlier in the week, this dominant 6–1 set victory confirms Alcaraz’s timing and competitive focus are returning at just the right moment.

My Analysis & Prediction

Tactical Takeaway: Blowing through a top-10 opponent like Karen Khachanov with a 6–1 scoreline in a practice setting is a massive psychological boost for Alcaraz. Practice sets are often used to test patterns, but the sheer intensity and clean striking from Alcaraz signal that his wrist is no longer on his mind. His movement is already at 100%, and if his first-serve percentage stays above 65%, he will be extremely tough to break in the early rounds.

Match Prediction: Expect Alcaraz to come out with high energy against Roman Safiullin in Round 1. While Safiullin holds a past victory over the Spaniard, Alcaraz's current sharpness and Grand Slam motivation should carry him through in a straight-sets win (3–0).