The final at the ATP Queen’s Club Championships is set, pitting 2023 champion and top seed Carlos Alcaraz against Jiri Lehecka in a match that has makings of a thrilling contest, even if there will be a clear favourite before a ball is hit in anger. Alcaraz is on a career-best 17-match win streak and is going for his second title here, to add to his two Wimbledon crowns, whereas Lehecka is playing in his first final on grass. Can Alcaraz beat Lehecka again at Queen’s Club, or will Lehecka defeat the Spaniard for the second time this year and win the biggest title of his career?
ATP Queen’s Club Final Prediction
Carlos Alcaraz vs Jiri Lehecka
Head-to-head:
Alcaraz has once again demonstrated his ability to excel on various surfaces by seamlessly transitioning to grass after winning the French Open in such memorable circumstances. He played a great match against his compatriot Roberto Bautista Agut – a fine grass-court player in his own right – in the semifinals. Alcaraz hit 15 aces in that straight-set win and was in control throughout the match. This is Alcaraz’s second final here in three appearances, and there is no Jack Draper to stop him this time. The Spaniard’s movement and ability to transition from defence to offence have been key as he has ruthlessly punished his opponents as soon as they have given him half a chance. After his week, and with his resume, he is the favourite for this final.
Jiri Lehecka took out another local player in the semifinals after a win over Jacob Fearnley in the last eight, but this time it was the big fish, Jack Draper, in a fantastic semifinal. Lehecka has limited experience on this surface, but his accurate serving and big ball striking have troubled everyone he has played this week and he has dropped just one set in reaching his first grass-court final. His aggressive style of play will make it hard for Alcaraz, who has struggled against players with big serves and groundstrokes in the past.
The world #2 has the advantage due to his superior variety and movement, but Lehecka is much more accomplished and experienced since the last time these two met on grass and should be able to keep this match close. The last time they played, Lehecka attacked Alcaraz’s second serve, and will look to repeat that strategy. I can see an upset, but I can’t go against Alcaraz’s sublime record in finals.
Prediction: Alcaraz in 3
Main photo credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
