Félix Auger-Aliassime, the world No. 5, fell to Karen Khachanov 6-3, 6-3 in the first round of the China Open on Wednesday, according to Tennishead. The Montreal native's defeat marks another early exit in what has become a troubling stretch of form for the Canadian.
What led to the loss?
Khachanov, a semi-finalist at the US Open, proved too strong for Auger-Aliassime in straight sets. The loss came after the Canadian had not competed in the 2026 China Open until this year, meaning he carried no points to defend from the previous edition.
Why the concern heading into autumn?
Auger-Aliassime has compiled a poor record at recent tournaments. Since reaching the Wimbledon quarter-finals, he has lost in the round of 16 at the Cincinnati Open to Frances Tiafoe, fell in the second round at the US Open to Khachanov, and now exited the China Open in the opening round. Despite these struggles, Auger-Aliassime won both singles matches and his doubles pairing for Canada in the second round of Davis Cup qualifying, defeating Arthur Rinderknech and Quentin Halys alongside Duncan Chan.
What comes next?
The timing of this slump is particularly concerning because Auger-Aliassime is defending 1,050 points during the 2026 European hard-court swing. The Canadian is recognised as one of the ATP Tour's premier indoor hard-court players, having won the European Open and reached the Paris Masters final in recent competition. The European indoor season represents a critical window for Auger-Aliassime to regain form and protect his ranking.