Carlos Alcaraz’s US Open Run Faces Big Test Against Jiri Lehecka

As the quarterfinal stage unfolds at Flushing Meadows, one of the most exciting matchups features Carlos Alcaraz against Jiri Lehecka. Set for their third meeting this year, the pair have already produced two thrilling three-setters, splitting wins to make this rivalry one of growing intrigue.

Alcaraz has been the standout player of the tournament so far, dazzling crowds with his mix of flair and grit. Yet even in this form, Lehecka cannot be discounted. The Czech has shown he has the weapons to trouble the Spaniard, and while a true upset seems unlikely, a much sterner test than many expect is certainly possible.

Alcaraz’s US Open Run Faces Big Test Against Lehecka

Path to the Quarterfinals

Alcaraz has breezed through the tournament so far, not dropping a single set and reinforcing why many consider him one of the top two favorites to lift the trophy. His movement, creativity, and ability to conjure winners out of defensive positions have been on full display. Despite an injury scare in the third round, he looked back at peak fitness in his last match.

Lehecka’s path has been far trickier, having dropped three sets along the way. The 23-year-old Czech thrives in fast conditions, where his flat, penetrating groundstrokes do maximum damage, and these courts offer him just that. For him, this quarterfinal is another chance to test his developing game against one of the very best.

The Tactical Battle

Both players possess decent first serves. This makes the second serve the real battleground. Both Alcaraz and Lehecka look to attack the weaker delivery aggressively, robbing opponents of time and dictating early in rallies. Whoever can protect their second serve more reliably will gain a crucial edge.

A key pattern to watch is the battle of forehands. Alcaraz’s heavy topspin allows him to push opponents off the court and create angles that open up space for his fearless shot-making. Lehecka, in contrast, prefers flatter strikes, aiming to rush his opponents and pin them deep behind the baseline. It is a clash of forehand supremacy, and whichever player can consistently impose their style on this wing will likely tilt the rallies in their favor.

On current form, Alcaraz appears to hold the upper hand. His baseline consistency, combined with his ability to defend at a world-class level before flipping points in an instant, makes him a nightmare matchup for most players. Yet Lehecka has already shown in Doha that he can hurt the Spaniard, and if Alcaraz loses focus, this could quickly turn into a dangerous contest.

What Lies Ahead

For Alcaraz, this quarterfinal represents another step in his quest to reclaim the US Open title and further establish himself as the face of the new generation. Every Slam run adds to his growing legacy, and with both Djokovic and Sinner still looming in the draw, maintaining his sharpness is essential.

For Lehecka, the opportunity is enormous. A quarterfinal against Alcaraz in New York is precisely the kind of stage that can accelerate a young career. A win would be the biggest of his life, propelling him into his first Grand Slam semifinal and giving him the belief that he can take on the sport’s very best.

Who do you think will come out on top in this high-stakes clash, Alcaraz or Lehecka? Let us know your pick.