Jack Draper fails to secure victory in Queen’s Club semi-final against Jiri Lehecka

In June 2025, British tennis player Jack Draper faced Jiri Lehecka in the semi-finals of the prestigious Queen's Club tournament in London. Despite being the British number one, Draper struggled with tonsillitis, which affected his energy levels throughout the match. Ultimately, he lost in three sets, as Lehecka made a strong comeback after losing the second set, securing the victory with a final score of 6-4, 4-6, 7-5. Draper expressed frustration during the match, particularly when he had moments of disappointment, such as smashing his racket in anger after dropping a key game. Even with increased effort, he found it challenging to keep pace with Lehecka, who was serving aces at speeds nearing 140 mph. Draper acknowledged his opponent's stronger performance in crucial moments and conceded that Lehecka was more effective both in serving and playing under pressure. Despite the loss, Draper's overall week was considered a success. His strong performance in the tournament not only showcased his skills but also earned him a top-four seeding for Wimbledon. Draper reflected on his participation, stating his pride in reaching the semis even while not feeling well. He highlighted the difficulties of competing at a professional level when not fully fit, but he embraced the challenges and aimed to recover for his upcoming matches. Lehecka, who became the first Czech finalist in 35 years at Queen's Club, praised Draper as a formidable competitor. The match ended in just over two hours, leading to ongoing discussions about the dominance of experienced players in the tournament and the emerging talents like Draper, who continue to push British tennis forward.