New York (AFP) – Carlos Alcaraz continued his untroubled progress at the US Open as he eased into the semi-finals on Tuesday with a 6-4, 6-2, 6-4 win over Jiri Lehecka. The Spaniard will play either 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic or last year’s runner-up Taylor Fritz on Friday for a place in the final.
Alcaraz is yet to lose a set at the tournament in his quest for a sixth Grand Slam title. He won his first major at the US Open in 2022 as a teenager. The 22-year-old can reclaim the world number one ranking from Jannik Sinner with another triumph in New York.
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“It’s really difficult not to think about it,” said Alcaraz. “Every time I step onto the court I try not to think about it. If I think about the number one spot too much I think I’m going to put pressure on myself and I don’t want to do that.”
Alcaraz, who again celebrated his win with an imaginary golf swing, said he would squeeze in another round on the course — with former Masters champion Sergio Garcia — in the two days off before his semi-final. “It’s something that’s working well so why should I change that routine,” said Alcaraz. “Every day off I go and try to play some golf.”
© 2024 AFP
