Karen Khachanov returned to a Masters 1000 final for the first time in nearly seven years in Canada. The Russian defeated Alexander Zverev in the semi-final and arranged the title clash against the first-time Masters 1000 finalist, Ben Shelto
The two rivals went down to the wire, and the young American prevailed 6-7, 6-4, 7-6 in two hours and 47 minutes for his career-best title. After an unforgettable encounter, Khachanov stood tall and demonstrated his class.
In a heartfelt moment during the trophy ceremony, the Russian recalled an early encounter with the Shelton family a couple of years ago. A memory added depth to the occasion and revealed Karen's admiration for his rival's short but powerful journey.
Following his loss to Ben Shelton, Karen Khachanov gave a gracious post-match speech.
“… you have very great family. Polite and educated …so (to) your father, your mother, whole your family, congratulations! …” #NBO25
— Chewy Veetton (@bebem00m00) August 8, 2025
Having been on the Tour for over a decade, the former Paris Masters champion recognized the significance of Shelton's breakthrough and took time to acknowledge the new champion and the supportive family around him.
Karen's thoughtful remarks elevated the moment beyond sport, offering a lesson in humility and respect that we all should remember and apply. For example, compare Khachanov's words with what Naomi Osaka said following her defeat to Victoria Mboko in Montreal.
The Russian may not have lifted the trophy by a couple of points, but he left Toronto having won the respect of fans and peers alike. Fierce competition dominates modern headlines, but Karen's sportsmanship serves as a reminder that grace in defeat can be just as powerful as wins.
Karen Khachanov, Toronto 2025© Stream screeshot
"First of all, I want to congratulate Ben. I had a conversation with your dad three or four years ago in Cincinnati when you got a wild card. At that time, you were still a college player, and he did not know if you should turn pro.
I told him that you just beat Casper Ruud and that you should give it a try. To be honest, he should listen to me. You are a top-10 player now and a Masters 1000 champion.
I wish you all the best. You are one of the nicest guys on the Tour, with a polite and educated family, and I congratulate you all," Karen Khachanov said.