Roger Federer: Karen Khachanov refuses to jump on Swiss star's bandwagon
KAREN KHACHANOV feels he was close to beating tennis icon Roger Federer.
Roger Federer and Karen Khacahnov have only faced off twice
The pair met last June at the Gerry Weber Open in Switzerland, and again in the Hopman Cup earlier this year.
Khachanov missed two set points to take the match into a deciding set in last year's match.
And Federer went on to win on both occasions without dropping a set.
But despite seeing the world No 2's class first hand, it's clear the young Russian isn't in awe of the Swiss star.
"[They were] very difficult matches [against Federer]," he told Tennis World Italy.
Karen Khachanov feels he could have beaten Roger Federer
Two matches we played, that was really tough, but I was feeling very close to him
"He forces you to take very fast decisions.
"Two matches we played, that was really tough, but I was feeling very close to him.
"Only a couple of points made the difference."
Federer is often viewed as a role model by younger players on the tour.
The Swiss star enjoys a good relationship with Miami Open runner up Alexander Zverev.
But Khachanov isn't seeking the approval of Federer.
"I prefer to think more about myself honestly, so we never really spoke about my matches," he added.
"Maybe we crossed each other in the locker room and we joked."