In a heart-stopping display of resilience and raw power, defending champion Carlos Alcaraz has clawed his way into the US Open semi-finals after an epic five-set battle against the formidable Czech, Jiri Lehecka. The Arthur Ashe Stadium witnessed a quarter-final classic that stretched for nearly four hours, ultimately ending 6-7(7), 6-3, 6-7(3), 6-4, 6-4 in the Spaniard's favour.
The match was a brutal test of nerve and stamina from the very first point. Lehecka, playing the match of his life, refused to be intimidated by the world number one or the roaring New York crowd. He snatched the first set in a tense tiebreak, signalling that this would be no straightforward affair for the favourite.
Alcaraz faced a monumental challenge, dropping another tiebreak in the third set to find himself perilously close to elimination. However, the true mark of a champion is the ability to triumph even when not playing at their peak. Digging deep, Alcaraz began to unleash his devastating forehand and find solutions to Lehecka's powerful, flat hitting.
The fourth and fifth sets became a masterclass in problem-solving under pressure. Alcaraz elevated his game, breaking Lehecka's serve at critical moments and showcasing the breathtaking shot-making that has become his trademark. Despite visible fatigue and a brief medical timeout for a leg issue, his fighting spirit never wavered.
With this hard-fought victory, Carlos Alcaraz keeps his title defence alive and continues his quest for a fourth Grand Slam trophy. He now awaits the winner of the match between Daniil Medvedev and Andrey Rublev, promising another blockbuster clash in the final four at Flushing Meadows.
