Dan Evans outlasts Karen Khachanov in longest ever US Open match

Dan Evans, aged 34, staged a remarkable comeback from a 0-4 deficit in the final set to triumph over Karen Khachanov, 28, in what has become the longest match in US Open history, lasting five hours and 35 minutes on court six. In front of an enthusiastic audience, Evans defeated the 23rd seed from Russia with scores of 6-7(6), 7-6(2), 7-6(4), 4-6, 6-4.

"It was an extensive and arduous contest," Evans remarked. "I believe I performed quite well for the majority of the match. Naturally, I faced physical challenges, but he did as well."

"It ultimately came down to who could endure the longest."

The previous record for the longest match at the US Open was set by Stefan Edberg, who defeated Michael Chang in the 1992 semi-finals, a match that lasted five hours and 26 minutes, with Edberg winning 6-7(7), 7-5, 7-6(3), 5-7, 6-4.

The match did not initially appear to be on track for a record when Khachanov established a 4-0 lead in the final set. He also had four break points on Evans's serve but was unable to capitalize on them.

Evans found his rhythm, spurred on by the crowd that filled the stands and lined the concrete walkways adjacent to the court, situated near the imposing Arthur Ashe Stadium.

"I simply aimed to progress gradually," Evans stated. "With each point, I was clearly struggling with my legs. My serve was fine, and my return gave me a glimmer of hope."

"As a child, you are taught to fight until the very end. That is essentially rule number one. I have consistently adhered to that principle throughout my career, and it bore fruit today."

Each set exceeded an hour in duration, with the third set extending to 72 minutes.

This is not the first time Evans has mounted an epic comeback in 2024. He and Andy Murray saved seven match points across two consecutive rounds before being eliminated in the quarterfinals of the men's doubles at the Paris Olympics.

Evans, who claimed victory at the 2023 ATP tournament in Washington, opted to forgo his title defense to participate in Paris, resulting in a significant drop in his ranking due to lost points.

"I am extremely proud to have emerged victorious in this match," Evans expressed, noting that he

Evans expressed his intention to take a break following the marathon, which left him feeling "sore all over."

"I don't believe I have ever played for five hours in a single day across two sessions, let alone in just one," he remarked with a chuckle. "I was actually reflecting on that while on the court. I have never practiced for two hours; it is usually around an hour and a half."

Regarding his upcoming second-round match against Argentina's Mariano Navone, he stated, "We will see what happens."

"I will certainly experience some discomfort for the next few hours, whether it be 12 hours, 48 hours, or more. I take pride in my fitness, so I should be able to manage it."