Off form this season, and attempting to keep away from dropping out of the world’s high 200, Evans battled valiantly within the sweltering circumstances.
He seemed to be working out of steam as Khachanov threatened to maneuver 5-0 forward within the decider, however held off three break factors and decreased the deficit to 4-3.
With a raucous crowd behind him, Evans fed off the temper and seized the momentum to earn a victory which can stay lengthy within the reminiscence.
The size of the match beat the earlier US Open file, set by Stefan Edberg and Michael Chang in a 1992 semi-final, by 9 minutes.
“I felt a little bit sorry for myself, however acquired myself going as a result of I didn’t need to exit of one other Slam with out a struggle and with a whimper,” stated Evans, who gained at a significant for the primary time this 12 months.
“I may see he was struggling a bit and tried to seize a sport at a time.”
Evans has endured a chastening 12 months during which he had gained simply 4 ATP Tour matches going into the ultimate Grand Slam occasion of the season.
That dire type, mixed with the choice to not defend the title – and rating factors – he gained in Washington final 12 months with a purpose to play doubles with the retiring Andy Murray on the Paris Olympics, has prompted Evans to plummet out of the world’s high 175.
Beating Khachanov is a reward for his perseverance – and his generosity to Murray.
“I’ve had a horrible 12 months. I knew I had put the work in however not sufficient as a result of I used to be a bit harm,” Evans added.
“I wish to assume I acquired a little bit of luck on the finish [against Khachanov], I almost blew it however I’m actually joyful.
“It was superb at 4-2, it actually began to get going. I don’t know what number of Brits had been there, however It appeared like the entire place needed me to win.”