World No.2 Carlos Alcaraz bested Jiri Lehecka at the HSBC Championships in the summit clash on Sunday. The Spaniard claimed a 7-5, 6-7(5), 6-2 win and won his 21st tour-level title. This is Alcaraz’s second title at Queen after he won his first while making his debut in 2023.

Alcaraz extended his winning streak to 18 matches as he continued his rich form. The Spaniard broke Lehecka’s serve at 5-5 in the opening set, which he went on to win in 45 minutes.

But, the big hitting Lehecka bounced back strongly to win the second set in the tiebreaker to level the score. However, Alcaraz lifted his level in the third and deciding set to win his second title at Queen’s.

Alcaraz was delighted after bagging a title in Wimbledon’s warm-up tournament.

“This tournament is really special to me,” said Alcaraz. “I’m just happy to lift the trophy once again. I came without expectation, just to play good tennis and get used to the grass. I [was lucky] to have a lot of friends and family here that made me feel really comfortable on and off the court.”

Alcaraz dropped just two of his 18 service points in the final set. Lehecka said he was happy after fighting in the final against Alcaraz.

“It’s tough for me to find the words now, but I’m super happy that I had the chance to fight for the title today,” said Lehecka, who trails Alcaraz 1-2 in their Lexus ATP Head2Head series. “Well done to Carlos and your team for doing a great job. I gave everything I had today and unfortunately it wasn’t enough.”

Alcaraz will now shift his focus to Wimbledon, which will commence on 30th June.