Carlos Alcaraz continued his confident run at the US Open, securing a place in the semifinals with a convincing victory over Jiri Lehecka, 6-4, 6-2, 6-4.

The Spaniard will face either 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic or last year’s finalist Taylor Fritz for a spot in the final. Alcaraz has yet to drop a set in the tournament in his quest for a sixth Grand Slam title, having won his first major at the US Open in 2022 as a teenager.

The 22-year-old could reclaim the world No. 1 ranking from Jannik Sinner with another triumph in New York. “It’s really hard not to think about it,” Alcaraz said. “Every time I step on the court, I try not to think about it. If I focus on being No. 1, I’ll put unnecessary pressure on myself, and I don’t want that.”

After his win, Alcaraz celebrated again with an imaginary golf swing, planning to use the two days before the semifinals for another round with former Masters champion Sergio Garcia. “It works well, why change my routine,” he added. “Every day off, I try to play golf.” | BGNES