Khachanov up against the wall Munar

A clash of styles that could drag on

Karen Khachanov goes into this second round with more questions than certainties. His opening match against De Jong was particularly labored. The Russian had to dig deep over the long haul, with an overall level of play that was not very convincing, especially in terms of rally intensity and the quality of his first strikes. That said, it was a comeback match. In that context, an inconsistent performance is not illogical. The lack of competitive reference points can explain the spells of uncertainty we saw, but it doesn’t completely dispel doubts about his ability to quickly raise his level.

On the other side of the net, Jaume Munar benefited in the first round from an opponent who quite literally impaled himself on his defensive pattern. Too rushed, too impatient, his opponent kept taking poorly calibrated risks, offering the Spaniard ideal conditions to unfurl his counterpunching tennis.

Munar didn’t need to force his talent: he absorbed, sent it back, wore him down. It’s exactly the kind of scenario in which he excels.

That’s where the key to the match lies. Khachanov obviously has greater hitting power and an ability to dictate rallies that Munar doesn’t possess. But if he falls into the trap of rushing things, going for the winner too early or stubbornly forcing the issue without constructing the point, he could relive the scenario of his first-round match—or worse. The major difference is that the Russian, unlike Munar’s previous opponent, has the experience and mental toughness to adjust his game plan along the way.

Given the still not entirely reassuring level shown by Khachanov and Munar’s ability to lengthen rallies and frustrate his opponents, I expect a tricky and potentially long match. Games could drag on, sets could be decided on small details, and the physical dimension could become very important. If Khachanov raises his serving level and accepts that he has to construct points patiently, he has the weapons to get through. But in light of the signs we saw in the first round, nothing suggests a quick affair.