MIAMI, FL – Jiří Lehečka continued his impressive run at the Miami Open presented by Itaú on Wednesday, defeating Spanish qualifier Martín Landaluce 7-6(1), 7-5 to reach the semifinals. The victory marks the second Masters 1000 semifinal appearance for the Czech player, equaling his best result at this level of competition, previously achieved in Madrid in 2024. Lehečka will now face either Arthur Fils of France or American Tommy Paul for a place in the final.
The match, played on Stadium Court in Miami, showcased a compelling contrast in experience and style. Landaluce, a 20-year-old making a remarkable debut at the Masters 1000 level, had already captured headlines with his unexpected journey to the quarterfinals. He became the lowest-ranked quarterfinalist at the event since 1994, and the first player born in 2006 or later to reach the last eight at a Masters 1000 tournament. Though, against the consistent power and composure of Lehečka, his fairytale run ultimately came to an end after two hours and two minutes of play.
A Tight First Set Decided by a Tiebreak
The opening set was a closely contested affair, with both players struggling to gain a decisive advantage on serve. Lehečka created an early break point opportunity in Landaluce’s opening service game, but a forced error allowed the Spaniard to hold. Both players maintained their serve through the initial stages, with Lehečka demonstrating greater control in the longer rallies. Landaluce, however, continued to show resilience, saving multiple break points as he navigated the pressure of facing a higher-ranked opponent.
As the set progressed, neither player was able to break through, leading to a tense tiebreak. Lehečka seized control in the tiebreak, capitalizing on a series of unforced errors from Landaluce to secure a dominant 7-1 victory and claim the first set after an hour of play. The tiebreak highlighted Lehečka’s ability to elevate his game in crucial moments, a characteristic that would prove vital throughout the match.
Lehečka Secures Second Set After a Hard-Fought Battle
The second set began with Lehečka maintaining his momentum, holding serve to love. He immediately position pressure on Landaluce’s serve, earning two break point chances in the second game. Landaluce responded with a courageous volley to save the first, but Lehečka continued to press, creating further opportunities. While Lehečka came close, Landaluce managed to hold on, demonstrating his fighting spirit.
The middle stages of the second set saw both players holding serve, with Landaluce finding his range with his first serve. However, Lehečka’s consistent pressure eventually began to wear down the Spaniard. After a lengthy fifth game, Lehečka found himself with another break point opportunity, ultimately securing the break after a series of intense rallies.
Despite the break, Landaluce refused to concede, battling back to level the set. However, Lehečka’s experience and composure proved decisive in the closing stages. He broke Landaluce’s serve in the 12th game, securing the set 7-5 and with it, a place in the semifinals. The final game featured several dramatic points, including a stunning forehand passing shot from Lehečka that set up a match point, which he eventually converted on his fourth attempt.
“Today was super tough,” Lehečka said after the match. “It is never easy to play against an opponent who has nothing to lose. He played incredibly. He played some unbelievable shots in crucial moments. Every time I had a break point he went for it and deserved those points. It was tough for me to handle. We both started to play exceptionally well and I was looking for the chance on the return, which finally came in the last game of the match.”
Lehečka’s victory was built on his ability to create and convert break point opportunities, holding 10 break points to Landaluce’s one. He also maintained his own serve throughout the match, a testament to his consistency and mental fortitude. This win also marks a continuation of Lehečka’s strong form, having previously overcome Top 10 player Taylor Fritz in the fourth round.
What’s Next for Lehečka?
Jiří Lehečka will now await the winner of the quarterfinal match between Arthur Fils and Tommy Paul. The semifinal clash promises to be another challenging test for the Czech player as he aims to reach his first Masters 1000 final. The match is scheduled to take place on Friday, March 27th, at the Miami Open. Fans can follow the action live on Tennis TV and through official tournament updates on the Miami Open website.
“Every match at Masters 1000 level is great and I am very proud of myself being able to fight through these past couple of days,” said Lehečka. “These are great, tough wins and I will do whatever I can do to prepare for the next round.”
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