US Open 2025: Alcaraz Storms Into Semi-Finals With Win Over Lehecka

Carlos Alcaraz underlined his reputation as one of tennis’ great entertainers after producing a commanding display to defeat Jiri Lehecka and book his place in the US Open semi-finals, Sport360NG reports.

The Spaniard, a five-time Grand Slam champion, swept past the Czech 6-4, 6-2, 6-4 in under two hours on Arthur Ashe Stadium. He broke Lehecka’s serve in the opening game and never relinquished control, mixing ruthless efficiency with flashes of brilliance that delighted the New York crowd.

“Sometimes I play shots that maybe I shouldn’t, but that’s the way I enjoy the game,” said the 22-year-old in his post-match interview. “Of course I want to be solid and smart, but if there’s a chance to play a spectacular shot, why not? I’m here to entertain the fans, my team, and myself.”

Second seed Alcaraz will now face either Taylor Fritz or Novak Djokovic for a place in Sunday’s final.

Lehecka, seeded 20th, endured a difficult start, handing his opponent an early break with two double faults. Although he steadied himself to make the first set competitive, the Czech was broken again at the start of the second, allowing Alcaraz to tighten his grip on the match.

The Spaniard, beaten by Lehecka earlier this year in Doha, dominated on serve and conceded just six points in the second set. With a two-set cushion, he grew even more expressive, pulling off a remarkable sliding drop shot that left his opponent stranded and the stadium on its feet.

This is Alcaraz’s third semi-final appearance at Flushing Meadows, having lifted the trophy in 2022. Remarkably, it is also the first time he has reached the last four of a Grand Slam without losing a set, the youngest man to achieve the feat since Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros in 2008.