Alcaraz battles past Lehecka to win second Queen’s Club Title ahead of Wimbledon defense
Carlos Alcaraz is heading to Wimbledon with momentum and silverware in hand. The world No. 2 edged rising Czech star Jiri Lehecka in a thrilling 7-5, 6-7(5), 6-2 victory on Sunday to claim his second Queen’s Club Championship title, solidifying his grass-court credentials just a week before the defense of his Wimbledon crown.
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The 21-year-old Spaniard, who previously triumphed at Queen’s Club en route to his maiden Wimbledon title in 2023, weathered a stern challenge from Lehecka before pulling away in the final set under breezy conditions at the Andy Murray Arena in West London. The win extends Alcaraz’s winning streak to 18 matches and adds a fifth title to his collection in the 2025 ATP season.
Queen’s Club Final Recap: Grit, Grass, and a Glimpse of Wimbledon Glory
It was far from straightforward for Alcaraz. Lehecka, seeking to become the first Czech player to win Queen’s Club since Ivan Lendl in 1990, matched the Spaniard's energy with powerful ball-striking and disciplined baseline play. After a tight opening exchange, it was Alcaraz who found the first breakthrough—capitalizing on a lapse at 5-5 in the first set to break serve and wrap up the opener in 45 minutes.
But Lehecka, already having beaten Alcaraz once this year in Doha, refused to fold. He pushed the second set into a tiebreak with bold shot-making and composure under pressure. A mini-break, an ace, and a costly double fault from Alcaraz at 5-5 handed Lehecka the set, leveling the contest and silencing a partisan crowd.
Third Set Surge: Alcaraz’s Championship instincts take over
The third set was where Alcaraz’s championship experience shone through. With Lehecka’s level dipping slightly in the face of swirling wind and fatigue, Alcaraz stormed to a 4-1 lead, dictating rallies with aggressive forehands and masterful court coverage.
Another break of serve sealed the match for Alcaraz, who let out a triumphant roar as Lehecka’s final backhand found the net.
“This is really special—this trophy and this tournament mean a lot to me,” said Alcaraz, cradling the glittering silverware. “Jiri had an incredible week. He’s a nightmare to play against, but I enjoyed every moment out there today.”
Alcaraz’s Wimbledon Statement: In Form, In Control, In Contention
With Sunday’s win, Alcaraz sends a powerful message to the rest of the ATP field. Since April, he has compiled an astonishing 27-1 match record, his only defeat coming at the hands of Holger Rune in Barcelona. He now heads to Wimbledon as the second seed behind Jannik Sinner, and a clear favorite to lift his second consecutive SW19 title.
His combination of explosive athleticism, creative shot-making, and rapidly improving grass-court skills make him a formidable force in London’s summer showcase.
“The goal this week was just to get a few matches on grass,” Alcaraz admitted. “This final was a bonus. I felt like I was in control most of the time, and I’m really happy with how I played.”
Lehecka's Star on the Rise
Despite the loss, Jiri Lehecka’s run to the final marks a major milestone in the 22-year-old’s career. The Czech, whose powerful baseline game and athleticism drew comparisons to countryman Lendl, stunned home favorite Jack Draper in the semifinals and pushed Alcaraz to the limit.
“Jiri is a great player, and he showed that this week,” said Alcaraz post-match. “He’s going to be a big name on the tour for many years.”
Lehecka's performance will certainly boost his confidence heading into Wimbledon, where he’ll be a dangerous floater in the draw.
Final Score & Stats: Alcaraz vs. Lehecka (Queen’s Club Final 2025)
- Carlos Alcaraz def. Jiri Lehecka: 7-5, 6-7(5), 6-2
- Match Duration: 2 hours 19 minutes
- Aces: Alcaraz – 8 | Lehecka – 9
- Break Points Converted: Alcaraz – 3/6 | Lehecka – 0/2
- Winners: Alcaraz – 31 | Lehecka – 27
- Unforced Errors: Alcaraz – 16 | Lehecka – 21
What’s Next: All eyes on Wimbledon 2025
Carlos Alcaraz heads into Wimbledon 2025 as a top title contender, seeking to defend his crown at the All England Club beginning Monday, June 30. Jiri Lehecka, now considered a legitimate grass-court threat, will also look to make a deep run.
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