Alcaraz Defeats Lehecka to Reach US Open Semifinals

Carlos Alcaraz advanced to the semifinals of the US Open with a straight-sets victory over Jiri Lehecka on Tuesday, winning 6-4, 6-2, 6-4 at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

The 22-year-old Spaniard was in control throughout the match, not facing a single break point and striking 28 winners. His serve proved a decisive weapon, as he dropped only 14 points across three sets.

One of the highlights came in the second set, when Alcaraz executed a backhand drop volley that drew a strong reaction from the crowd. After the match, Lehecka acknowledged the quality of his opponent, saying he faced “the Grand Slam version of Carlos.” Alcaraz responded by describing his own performance as “almost perfect,” adding that he feels “great and hungry” heading into the next round.

The victory extended Alcaraz’s flawless run in New York, where he has yet to lose a set in this year’s tournament. With this result, he became the youngest player since Rafael Nadal in 2008 to reach a Grand Slam semifinal without dropping a set, and the youngest since 1978 to make semifinals on all three surfaces across multiple seasons.

Alcaraz will next face Novak Djokovic in a highly anticipated semifinal. The winner will move within one victory of the title and, potentially, the No. 1 ranking.

Can Alcaraz can carry his momentum past Djokovic, or if the 24-time Grand Slam champion will once again assert his experience on the sport’s biggest stage?

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