Lehecka Aims for Breakthrough Against Alcaraz in Doha Quarterfinals

DOHA, Qatar — Jiri Lehecka is poised to break new ground this Thursday as he faces Carlos Alcaraz in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Qatar ExxonMobil Open. The 23-year-old Czech tennis player, currently ranked No. 25 in the PIF ATP Rankings, is looking to improve on his career-high ranking of No. 23 by defeating the top-seeded Alcaraz, who currently leads their head-to-head series 1-0.

Lehecka comes into this match hot off an impressive start to the 2025 season, boasting an 11-2 record and having clinched his second tour-level title in Brisbane. His victory in the Australian tournament solidified his reputation as a rising star in the tennis world. “I feel great playing right now and ready for the challenge against Carlos,” said Lehecka. “It’s an opportunity to prove myself against one of the best.”

The last time these two met was during the 2023 ATP 500 tournament at Queen’s Club, where Alcaraz emerged victorious. Lehecka recalled the match, stating, “I was surprised by his level on grass, especially since I knew his strengths were more on hard court and clay. It was a great lesson for me.” Since then, Lehecka has transformed his game, recently recording six wins over top-10 opponents.

Despite facing a setback last year with a four-month injury hiatus, Lehecka returned with newfound determination. “One of my most memorable wins was against Daniil Medvedev after my comeback,” he shared. “I had doubts, but that win really gave me confidence.” Now, as he prepares for a match against Alcaraz — who is riding a 12-match ATP 500 win streak — Lehecka aims to leverage his recent training sessions with the Spaniard. “We practiced together in Rotterdam and again here in Doha,” he explained. “We know each other well; it’s exciting to face him.”

Should Lehecka succeed, it wouldn’t be his first time besting a Spanish superstar. Last year, he stunned fans by defeating Rafael Nadal at the ATP Masters 1000 in Madrid. “Playing against Rafael with 13,000 Spanish fans was challenging but also an unforgettable experience,” Lehecka said, emphasizing the adrenaline of competing against a legend. “I want to bring that energy into this match with Carlos.”

The quarterfinal schedule for Thursday features Lehecka’s match against Alcaraz set for not before 5:30 PM local time, following the encounter between Alex de Minaur and Felix Auger-Aliassime. Fans are eager to see if Lehecka can maintain his momentum and reclaim his place among the sport’s elite.