American Moe shatters Khachanov in Hong Kong as Svitolina shines in Auckland: a bold start to 2026

Michael Moe stuns Khachanov in Hong Kong

The 2026 season kicked off with a jolt as American Michael Moe toppled 4th seed Karen Khachanov in straight sets, 7-6, 7-6, at the Hong Kong 250-point event. Moe’s win was especially notable given his modest 2025 main‑tour tally, as he surged to the quarterfinals in the year’s opening week.

Though Moe had just two ATP main-tour wins in 2025, he equaled that total within seven days of 2026 and secured his first top‑20 victory against Khachanov since their previous meeting at the 2023 US Open. In his post-match remarks, Moe recalled, “It’s funny that my first junior title was against Khachanov; we’ve been competing since we were 14. He’s a great player and I knew I had to bring my best to the court.”

Advancing to the quarterfinals, Moe now meets compatriot Marcos Giron, who eliminated the 7th seed and defending champion Alexander Muller in a tight 6-4, 7-6 duel. The win keeps Giron’s hopes alive to push deep in this tournament, with Moe promising more fireworks to come.

Earlier in the day in Hong Kong, Shang Juncheng, 20, extended hisHK run by reaching the quarterfinal for a third consecutive time since the tournament’s return in 2024, defeating fifth seed Lorenzo Sonego 6-3, 6-4. Shang will face second seed Alexander Bublik next as he tries to push into the business end of the draw.

In Auckland, the women’s 250-point event saw top seed Elina Svitolina advance to the quarterfinals after a 7-5, 6-4 win over Katie Boult er. She will meet Sonay Kartal, who beat Ella Seidel 6-3, 6-1 to continue her own solid form. Meanwhile, 4th seed Alexandra Eala outclassed Petra Martic 6-0, 6-2, earning a sequel clash with Magda Linette, who overcame Elisabetta Cocciaretto 7-5, 2-6, 6-3. Magda Linette’s run sets up a potential blockbuster quarterfinal, with Eala looming as a rising challenger.

Across both tours, the early momentum suggests an unpredictable, high-energy season ahead. And if the scoreboards had a sense of humor, they’d probably print Moe’s name in bold on every page—because he’s not just serving aces; he’s serving notice.

Punchline 1: Moe’s forehand is so precise it probably filed a restraining order against the ball—never let it get away again. Boom, backhand accuracy, case closed.

Punchline 2: If this keeps up, the trophy will demand a passport—it’ll be traveling with Moe before the rest of the tour can blink.