Jiri Lehecka produced the biggest win of his career, stunning world No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz 6-3, 3-6, 6-4 to book his place in the Qatar ExxonMobil Open semi-finals. The Czech star showcased fearless aggression, overpowering Alcaraz from the baseline and rallying from 2-4 down in the final set to seal a statement victory.
Lehecka’s powerful serves and pinpoint groundstrokes dictated play early, putting Alcaraz on the defensive. The Spaniard, who arrived in Doha on a seven-match winning streak after his title run in Rotterdam, fought back in the second set, using his signature defensive skills and precise passing shots to level the match. But when it mattered most, Lehecka stayed aggressive, breaking back late in the decider to secure his first Top 3 win.
“I feel great,” Lehecka said. “The match was up and down, but I believed in myself and knew I had the level to produce this kind of tennis.” The 23-year-old now has seven career Top 10 victories and has tied his head-to-head series with Alcaraz at 1-1. His latest success pushes him to No. 22 in the live ATP rankings, with a career-high position guaranteed on Monday.
Alcaraz, making his Doha debut, had impressed in earlier rounds, but his timing was inconsistent against Lehecka’s relentless attacking play. The top seed fought off multiple break points and showcased moments of brilliance, but in the key moments, Lehecka’s fearless approach paid off.
The Czech’s reward is a semi-final clash against Jack Draper, who battled past Matteo Berrettini in three sets. “I will try to recover well and bring even more tomorrow,” Lehecka said. With his confidence soaring, he looks ready for another big test in Doha.
