In brief
Carlos Alcaraz secured a spot in the US Open semifinals with a convincing straight-sets victory over Jiri Lehecka. The young Spaniard's performance showcased his brilliance and dedication to entertaining fans. He aims to continue his pursuit of a second US Open title.
Carlos Alcaraz says he is here to entertain after producing another brilliant performance to beat Jiri Lehecka and reach the US Open semi-finals. The Spaniard took less than two hours to beat the Czech 6-4 6-2 6-4 at Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York.The five-time Grand Slam winner laid down an early marker by breaking world number 21 Lehecka in the opening game and displayed a laser-like focus throughout the match. But Alcaraz still found time for some showmanship during the victory, thrilling the crowd with his astonishing repertoire of shot-making.Sometimes I play a shot that I should not play in that moment but it's the way I love playing tennis, Alcaraz, 22, told Sky Sports. I want to play solid, play well and play smart but at the same time when I have the opportunity to play a great shot - or a hot shot, let's say - why not? I'm here to entertain the people, myself and the team.Second seed Alcaraz will either face fourth seed Taylor Fritz or 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic for a place in the final. Lehecka, the 20th seed, double faulted twice in his opening service game to hand Alcaraz the early break. Despite the nightmare start, the Czech steadied himself but could not recover as Alcaraz dominated the match, moving into the semifinals without dropping a set for the first time in his career.
