Khachanov describes the matches in Rome: "It's like a soccer game"

Karen Khachanov is in Rome and is preparing to possibly face Lorenzo Sonego, Roman Burruchaga, for his debut match.

The Russian, quoted by the media outlet Championat, described the atmosphere of the matches in Rome, especially when he faces an Italian player: "I think I played against him once here, in Rome, in 2019. I remember it was a very challenging match.

Previously, we played in Monte-Carlo, I lost to him. And then, let's say, there was a rematch at his place, in the Next Gen Arena, it was packed to the brim, like it was a soccer game.

I was overwhelmed with emotion during that match. I exploded at the end when I won. We played for, I believe, three hours. After that, we faced each other again at Roland-Garros.

If I have to face him again here, well, I will prepare myself. A challenging match both psychologically and physically."