Karen Khachanov joins Roger Federer in 2021 Halle player field

World No. 15 Karen Khachanov has already signed up to play in Halle next year. 

The Russian has been a regular participant in Halle for the past few seasons. 

Khachanov, 23, made the semifinal in his Halle debut three years ago in 2017. 

The Russian's promising Halle run was ended by record 10-time Halle champion Roger Federer. 

In each of the past two seasons, the 23-year-old made the quarterfinal in Halle. 

Khachanov, a former world No. 8, was aiming to make his fourth consecutive appearance in Halle this year. 

Unfortunately, he won't be able to do so as Halle got called off after the ATP extended the Tour suspension until at least July 13. 

"It is an unfortunate step. However, given the current situation, there is no alternative,” Halle Tournament Director Ralf Weber said in a released statement following the tournament cancellation. “We would also like to take this moment to thank all partners, sponsors and helpers for their understanding and their solidarity. We are all looking towards the year 2021 now in which our 28th edition of the tournament will be held."

The Halle organizers have secured two big names for the 2021 edition as former world No. 1 Federer has also announced that the intends to play Halle next year. 

Khachanov, the 2018 Paris Masters champion, hasn't made a semifinal at a grass event ever since he made the last-4 in Halle three years ago. 

It remains to be seen if Khachanov can make a splash when he returns to Halle next year.

from Tennis World USA https://ift.tt/3b3TBgH