Carlos Alcaraz Advances to US Open Semi-Finals with Entertaining Victory

Tue Oct 21 2025 12:35:45 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Carlos Alcaraz showcased his skills and showmanship in a straight-sets victory over Jiri Lehecka, securing his spot in the semi-finals of the US Open.

Carlos Alcaraz, the second seed, reached the semi-finals of the US Open by defeating Jiri Lehecka in straight sets. The match showcased Alcaraz's stellar performance and penchant for entertaining the crowd, stating he is 'here to entertain.' He will face either Novak Djokovic or Taylor Fritz next in the tournament.

US Open 2025

Venue: Flushing Meadows, New York Dates: 24 August-7 September

Coverage: Live radio commentaries across 5 Live Sport and BBC Sounds, plus live text commentaries on the BBC Sport website & app

Carlos Alcaraz says he is here to entertain after producing another brilliant performance to beat Jiri Lehecka and reach the US Open semi-finals.

The Spaniard took less than two hours to beat the Czech 6-4 6-2 6-4 at Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York.

The five-time Grand Slam winner laid down an early marker by breaking world number 21 Lehecka in the opening game and displayed focused and precise play throughout the match.

Alcaraz thrilled the crowd with an astonishing repertoire of shot-making, emphasizing his belief in entertaining while playing tennis.

Sometimes I play a shot that I should not play in that moment but it's the way I love playing tennis, Alcaraz explained. I want to play solid, play well and play smart but at the same time, when I have the opportunity to play a great shot - or a hot shot, let's say - why not? I'm here to entertain the people, myself and the team.

Second seed Alcaraz will either face fourth seed Taylor Fritz or 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic for a place in the final.

Lehecka, the 20th seed, struggled early, committing double faults in his opening service game, which allowed Alcaraz to seize the initiative. Although Lehecka managed to settle into the match, Alcaraz's early leads in subsequent sets proved decisive.

Alcaraz's performance marks his third journey to the semi-finals at the US Open, achieving this without dropping a set for the first time in his career. He is the youngest player to accomplish this feat since Rafael Nadal at the 2008 French Open.