Khachanov a first-time Grand Slam quarterfinalist and father-to-be

Karen Khachanov is having a lot of firsts at the French Open—reaching his first Grand Slam quarterfinal, ensuring his first appearance in the Top 10, and announcing that he and his wife are expecting their first child.

Khachanov defeated his childhood idol Juan Martin del Potro in four sets to clinch a spot in the quarterfinals.

"We're expecting a baby," the 23-year-old then told the crowd with his wife in the stands.

His run is something of a surprise—Khachanov came into the event with a 10-12 record for the season, despite high expectations following his first Masters title at Bercy in 2018.

"I'm not looking to make excuses," he told Le Figaro during the clay season. "But I changed my racquet. I wanted to try something better. It was not easy because it was my best season and I had just won the biggest title of my career. It might not have been the best choice. I switched back at Indian Wells."

But he is not that surprised he has turned it around at Paris, where he won his first big title. "Roland Garros is my favorite Grand Slam."

The Russian also adds that he "likes playing on clay," even though his big-hitting style works on other surfaces.

"There is more time to construct your shots," said Khachanov. "There is more thinking."

Khachanov plays Dominic Thiem in the quarterfinals.

Catch up on Week 1 at Roland Garros on the TENNIS.com Podcast: