Czech tennis player Jiri Lehecka secured an impressive victory over British number one Jack Draper in the semi-finals at Queen`s Club. This significant win proved particularly emotional for Lehecka`s girlfriend, Lucka Neumannova, who was visibly moved by the match.
Lehecka delivered a strong performance, hitting 16 aces on his way to a 6-4, 4-6, 7-5 triumph under the sunny London sky. Watching the intense match from the stands was his partner, Lucka.
The demanding three-set battle seemed to be too much to bear emotionally for Lucka, who is a Czech track and field athlete herself. She was shown on camera crying while applauding Lehecka`s efforts in the heat, which reached around 30°C.
Lucka has been in London this week supporting Lehecka. She had previously been seen cheering him on when he reached the fourth round of the Australian Open in January. Reports suggest the couple started dating last year.
As an 800m specialist runner, Neumannova has been making the most of her time in the capital. She shared several photos with her followers online ahead of Saturday`s semi-final.
The 22-year-old was seen enjoying traditional strawberries and cream at the tournament, and also took time for a run in a nearby park.
Lehecka`s win, considered one of the biggest achievements of his career, sends him to his first-ever grass court final. He is scheduled to face either World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz or Roberto Bautista Agut in Sunday`s final match.
Reflecting on his victory, Lehecka commented, “It means a lot, you don`t beat a player like Jack every day.” He also expressed gratitude to the crowd for their fair behaviour, saying, “I know your favourite didn`t win today, but I really appreciate you being fair and clapping when I hit a few good [shots].”
For the British number one, Jack Draper, the semi-final was a disappointing end to his Queen`s campaign, despite being the favourite. His frustration was evident when he smashed his racquet during the match and reportedly damaged the courtside advertising boards.
Despite failing to become the first British winner at Queen`s in nine years, Draper`s run to the semi-finals was crucial for his world ranking. The result has allowed him to move past Novak Djokovic and Taylor Fritz, securing him a top-four seeding at Wimbledon. This higher seeding means he is set to avoid facing top contenders like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner until at least the semi-final stage.
