McDonald M. vs Khachanov K.

ATP Hertogenbosch – Match Preview

McDonald M. vs Khachanov K.

🧠 Form & Context

• Mackenzie McDonald 🇺🇸
  Riding a wave of momentum after winning three matches this week—including a tough three-setter over Bellucci—McDonald is showing signs of life in a season otherwise marked by injury setbacks and inconsistency. A two-time quarterfinalist here (2018, 2023), his comfort on grass is clear, but he still lacks a breakthrough win over a top-tier opponent in 2025. He also trails 0–4 in the head-to-head against Khachanov, including a grass-court loss at Wimbledon in 2021.
• Karen Khachanov 🇷🇺
  At 14–13 this season, Khachanov’s results have been a mixed bag, though he showed grit on clay with a Geneva quarterfinal and a Round of 16 in Rome. This will be his first grass match of the year—surface rust is a factor—but his big serve, flat strokes, and imposing frame are well-suited to faster courts. His 4–0 record over McDonald speaks volumes, with each win coming in dominant fashion, including a four-set grass-court victory at Wimbledon.

🔍 Match Breakdown

McDonald’s early-round form gives him match rhythm, something Khachanov lacks coming straight from clay. That could make the opening set tight. McDonald will try to use his low center of gravity, early returns, and compact strokes to apply pressure—but Khachanov’s power game has historically overwhelmed him.

If Khachanov shakes off the rust by set two, his baseline dominance and superior serve should take over. McDonald must serve efficiently and take risks on return to avoid being pushed around in neutral rallies, something he hasn’t managed in previous meetings.

🔮 Prediction

Prediction: Khachanov in 3 sets.
McDonald could make things interesting early thanks to his momentum and grass comfort, but once Khachanov finds rhythm, his physical edge and clean ball-striking should carry him through. Expect the American to test him—but ultimately fall short.