Carlos Alcaraz Stunned by Jiri Lehecka in Qatar Open Quarterfinals

DOHA, Qatar — Spanish tennis star Carlos Alcaraz was eliminated in the quarterfinals of the Qatar ExxonMobil Open on February 20, 2025, falling to Czech player Jiri Lehecka in a gripping match that ended 3-6, 6-3, 4-6. The defeat marks a significant upset as Alcaraz, currently ranked third in the world, was looking to extend his impressive winning streak.

After losing the first set 3-6, Alcaraz rebounded in the second, showcasing his prowess with aggressive serves and strategic plays. At one point, he surged ahead, taking control of the match with a break in the third set to lead 3-2. However, Lehecka, known for his resilience under pressure, responded aggressively, leveling the match at 4-4 and claiming crucial points when it mattered most.

Alcaraz reflected on the match saying, “It was tough. I had my chances, but Jiri played really well. He never backed down and made the most of his opportunities.” His sentiment echoed the intense battle that unfolded on the court, where both players pushed each other to the limit.

Lehecka, who has been on an upward trajectory in his career, noted the significance of this victory, particularly over someone of Alcaraz’s caliber. “We trained together recently, and I knew what to expect. But in a match, anything can happen, and I’m just glad I was able to execute my game plan effectively,” he stated.

Throughout the match, Lehecka demonstrated impressive service skills, landing an impressive 73% of first serves and consistently attacking Alcaraz’s second serve. The Czech player also captured vital points with his powerful groundstrokes, disrupting Alcaraz’s rhythm. The final moments of the match showcased Lehecka’s composure as he secured two match points, capitalizing on Alcaraz’s unforced errors.

As Alcaraz prepares to shift his focus to the upcoming ATP Masters 1000 in Indian Wells, he will reflect on his performance in Doha. “I need to learn from this match. I’ve been doing well but every day is a chance to improve,” he said.

Lehecka will advance to the semifinals of the tournament, seeking to build on his momentum as he aims for his second consecutive career-best showing. The quarterfinals highlighted not only the fierce competition in the ATP circuit but also the rising stars challenging established players, as Lehecka continues to prove he is a formidable opponent.