So close, but at the same time so far.
Despite a two-set lead, Félix Auger-Aliassime was unable to overcome Russian qualifier Aslan Karatsev, who saved the best for last to eliminate the Canadian in five sets of 3-6, 1-6, 6-3, 6-3 and 6-4.
Auger-Aliassime seemed to be off to a good start, breaking the Russian from the first moments of the match. Although he conceded his service immediately after, the 19th world – finalist last week in a preparatory event – pulled himself together to orchestrate another breakage and possibly fly away with the round.
In the second act, foiled by Auger-Aliassime’s clever mix of power and speed, Karatsev stumbled in his second service appearance. This time, however, the Canadian managed to consolidate the breakage after surviving a long 16-strike rally as he faced a breakage ball and looked set for glory.
Karatsev, who had nothing more to lose, started the third round with much more discipline. In the fifth game, Auger-Aliassime, who until then had been in full control of the game, stumbled. The Montrealer found himself in a 0-40 deficit and was unable to get out of the mess. By offering a break to his rival, he completely changed the pace of the game.
And without warning, Karatsev won the third round.
It is with renewed confidence – and more regularity – that Karatsev took the reins as hesitation and frustration entered Auger-Aliassime’s game. Continuing to apply the tactics that had allowed him to gain the advantage, but no longer taking advantage of unforced errors from his opponent, the Canadian conceded his service at the start of the fourth act and left the field open to his opponent.
The ticket to the quarter-finals of the Australian Open would therefore be decided by a final round. In the wake of the previous two sets, Auger-Aliassime lost his serve in the third game without making a single success of his first offerings.
Although he adjusted his position on return serve in an attempt to limit the damage, Auger-Aliassime was unable to annoy the stronger than ever Karatsev. And it was after a battle of three hours and 25 minutes that Auger-Aliassime’s course at the Australian Open ended with a final winning forehand from Karatsev.
The Canadian will undoubtedly have a hard time swallowing the pill, but at just 20 years old he has a long career ahead of him and will have plenty of other opportunities to shine in the Grand Slams.
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