Norwegian Casper Ruud has harnessed his mighty forehand to reach his second Grand Slam final this year, beating Russian Karen Khachanov 7-6(5) 6-2 5-7 6-2 at the US Open to keep alive his hopes of reaching the top of the world rankings.
The first Norwegian man to reach the final at Flushing Meadows won an extraordinary 55-shot rally to close the first-set tiebreak on his way to victory at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
The fifth seed next faces either home hope Frances Tiafoe or third seed Carlos Alcaraz of Spain in the final.
"This match is probably the biggest match for both of our careers," said Ruud, who was left humbled, when he lost in straight sets to Rafa Nadal in June's French Open final.
"You want to take care of the opportunities you have and I was able to do that today."
Ruud, 23, is known for his poise on clay, but was equally effective on New York's hardcourt, winning 14 straight points to build a 5-1 lead in a near-flawless second set.
His form deteriorated in the third, where he racked up 11 unforced errors and handed Khachanov the break on setpoint.
However, Ruud bounced back to convert breaks on chances in the third and fifth game of the fourth set, and clinched the contest with a forehand winner, one of 20 across the match.
Ruud would make the leap from world No.7 to No.1, if he hoists the trophy, or if Tiafoe beats Alcaraz in their semi-final, according to the ATP.
Reuters
