In a pulsating final at the 2025 Queen’s Club Championships, world number two Carlos Alcaraz solidified his status as a grass-court maestro, outlasting Czech rising star Jiri Lehecka to claim his second title at the prestigious tournament. The Spaniard’s 7-5, 6-7(5), 6-2 victory on June 22, 2025, extended his remarkable 18-match winning streak and sent a resounding message ahead of his Wimbledon title defense, set to begin on June 30. The two-hour, eight-minute clash at the Andy Murray Arena showcased Alcaraz’s resilience and versatility, while Lehecka’s spirited performance underscored his emergence as a formidable force.
Alcaraz, who first triumphed at Queen’s in 2023 en route to his maiden Wimbledon crown, faced a stern test from the 23-year-old Lehecka, who was vying to become the first Czech champion at the event since Ivan Lendl in 1990. The opening set was a tightly contested affair, with Alcaraz seizing a crucial break at 5-5 to edge ahead in 45 minutes. His serving prowess was on full display, as he fired down 18 aces and didn’t face a single break point throughout the match. “This tournament is really special to me,” Alcaraz said post-match, his voice brimming with emotion. “I’m just happy to lift the trophy once again. I came without expectation, just to play good tennis and get used to the grass.”
Lehecka, ranked world number 30, refused to be overawed. Fresh off a semifinal upset over British hope Jack Draper, he brought his thunderous serve—clocking a 138mph ace to fend off a break point—and powerful groundstrokes to the final. The second set saw him dig deep, capitalizing on a rare Alcaraz lapse in the tiebreak. A highlight came when Alcaraz, trailing 3-4, stretched for a miraculous lob after Lehecka’s deft drop shot, sending the crowd into a frenzy. Undeterred, Lehecka responded with an ace to level the match. “It’s tough for me to find the words now, but I’m super happy that I had the chance to fight for the title today,” Lehecka reflected, gracious in defeat. “I gave everything I had. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough.”
The deciding set, however, belonged to Alcaraz. After Lehecka’s level dipped, the Spaniard broke for a 3-1 lead and never looked back, unleashing a barrage of winners, including a flashing forehand that set up two championship points. When Lehecka’s backhand sailed into the net, Alcaraz erupted in a roar of delight, celebrating his 21st career title and fifth of the 2025 season. His dominance in the third set, where he dropped just two service points, highlighted his ability to elevate his game under pressure, a trait that makes him a favorite for Wimbledon.
This victory, following triumphs in Rome and the French Open, marks Alcaraz’s 12th consecutive win on grass and a 29-3 career record on the surface. Despite a slow start to the tournament as he transitioned from clay, the 22-year-old’s adaptability shone through. Lehecka, who previously defeated Alcaraz in Doha earlier this year, acknowledged his opponent’s brilliance: “Well done to Carlos and your team for doing a great job as always.” For Alcaraz, the presence of friends, family, and even fellow star Emma Raducanu in the stands added to the occasion’s magic. “I was lucky to have a lot of friends and family here that made me feel really comfortable on and off the court,” he said.
As the tennis world turns its gaze to Wimbledon, Alcaraz’s stylish performance—capped by 33 winners and a serving masterclass—positions him as the man to beat. Lehecka, meanwhile, emerges with his reputation enhanced, his fearless display proving he’s a rising threat. For now, Alcaraz reigns as the King of Queen’s, his latest triumph a testament to his unrelenting drive and undeniable genius.
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