Evans Outlasts Khachanov in Record-Breaking U.S. Open Epic

British qualifier Dan Evans overcame Russia's Karen Khachanov in a grueling five-hour and 35-minute battle to advance to the second round of the 2022 U.S. Open, setting a new tournament record for the longest match in history.

184th-ranked Dan Evans defied the odds on Tuesday, upsetting 2022 U.S. Open semifinalist Karen Khachanov in a marathon five-set encounter that pushed the boundaries of the sport's endurance limits. The British qualifier dug deep to overcome a resilient Khachanov and secure a hard-fought 6-7 (6), 7-6 (2), 7-6 (4), 4-6, 6-4 victory, leaving an indelible mark on the annals of U.S. Open history.

The epic encounter, which stretched well beyond the five-hour mark, showcased the indomitable spirit and unwavering determination of both players. Evans, a relative underdog coming into the match, exhibited remarkable resilience, battling back from a 4-0 deficit in the fourth set to clinch the final six games and force a nail-biting decider.

Evans Outlasts Khachanov in Record-Breaking U.S. Open Epic

The match reached its climax in a tense 22-shot rally on match point, with Evans ultimately triumphing as Khachanov's return sailed wide. The victory marked a significant milestone for the British star, who had never previously played a match that spanned five hours, let alone in a single day.

Reflecting on the grueling encounter, Evans admitted to his physical exhaustion, admitting, "I was hurting all over, really." He marveled at the unprecedented length of the match, stating, "I don't think I've played five hours, that long, in a day, ever — in two sessions, never mind in one."

Evans Outlasts Khachanov in Record-Breaking U.S. Open Epic

The incredible duration of the match also tested Evans's mental fortitude. At one point during the fourth set, he confessed, "I had to check the scoreboard to see what set we were in. I wasn't entirely sure what set we were in."

Evans's victory shattered the previous U.S. Open record for the longest match, which had stood for over three decades. The 1992 semifinal clash between Stefan Edberg and Michael Chang had lasted five hours and 26 minutes.

Evans Outlasts Khachanov in Record-Breaking U.S. Open Epic

The British qualifier's remarkable triumph was not only a personal achievement but also a testament to his unwavering perseverance and belief in himself. Despite being ranked well below Khachanov, Evans refused to be intimidated by his opponent's pedigree and seized the opportunity to make history.

Evans's victory sent shockwaves through the tennis world and earned him widespread praise for his fighting spirit and incredible endurance. It also served as a reminder that anything is possible in the realm of sports, especially when one possesses the unwavering determination and relentless spirit that he displayed on the court on Tuesday.

As he left the court, Evans could barely contain his relief and exhaustion, expressing his immediate desire to "just go to bed." The British star's historic victory will undoubtedly be etched into the memory of tennis fans for years to come, a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the boundless possibilities that lie ahead for those who dare to dream big.