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23 Mar 2026 | 01.27
Martín Landaluce has achieved the most important victory of his career in the third round of the Miami Open 2026, defeating Karen Khachanov with a score of 6-3 7-6(2) after 1 hour and 20 minutes of play where he performed at a very high level. This allows him to advance for the first time in his career to the round of 16 of a Masters 1000, climbing several positions in the rankings.
The Spanish tennis player not only defeated a former top 10 player like Karen Khachanov, but he did so with authority and bravery. Knowing how to suffer and playing aggressively when necessary. He didn't rush his shots in crucial points, and at 20 years old, he has shown that he is ready for significant achievements on the tour. This is the victory he needed to make a strong statement and take a very important step forward in his career.
Landaluce completely dominates Khachanov in the first set
The first set was a real statement of intent from the Spanish player, who feels very comfortable on these courts. Playing aggressively, Landaluce dismantled Khachanov, securing a break in the third game of the match, which would turn out to be decisive. In fact, Martín did not face a single break point throughout the set, reflecting the high level displayed throughout the entire first set.
To seal the deal, Martín achieved one last break with a 5-3 lead, closing the first set 6-3 and ensuring he would start serving in the next set, which is always crucial. He was outperforming his opponent, a top 15 player with a strong track record like Khachanov, who appeared frustrated for not finding solutions against the Spanish player's game.
Landaluce reigns in chaos and secures his spot in the round of 16
The second set was much more chaotic than the first. In fact, Khachanov's response was quick, with an early break giving him the lead on the scoreboard. Three games later, Landaluce reciprocated the favor to the Russian player, who then counterattacked with another service break. The match was becoming unpredictable, with neither player showing confidence on serve. Anything could happen, but at that moment, Karen held the advantage.
Landaluce saved another break point trailing 4-2, and that fueled him as he managed to break back in the following game, putting all the pressure on Khachanov. The Russian player felt that pressure, committing a double fault and several errors, giving two match points to the Spanish player. He saved the first with an ace and the second with an unforced error from Landaluce that gave Karen a lifeline.
Far from crumbling, Landaluce showed his magic in the next service game, but Khachanov also stepped up, taking the set to a tiebreak. Despite the Russian player having more experience in these situations, it was Martín who demonstrated the necessary maturity and courage to take the initiative and achieve the triumph. He will face Sebastian Korda in the round of 16, who comes in with high confidence after defeating Carlos Alcaraz. However, if he plays like today, anything is possible.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Landaluce se gradúa en Miami con una gran victoria ante Khachanov
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