Tough blow for Lehecka: the defending champion forced to retire in Brisbane

Winner last year, Jiri Lehecka dreamed of a new triumph in Brisbane. But a sudden ankle injury against Korda abruptly halted his momentum, casting doubt before the Australian Open.

© AFP

Adrien Guyot

le 07/01/2026 à 07h10

1 min to read

Brisbane Korda Sebastian Lehecka Jiri

Jiri Lehecka will not achieve the double at the ATP 250 in Brisbane. Crowned last year at the expense of Reilly Opelka, the Czech player will not experience the same joy this season.

Despite his success against his compatriot Tomas Machac in the first round (6-4, 6-7, 6-2), the world No. 19 could not follow up. In the round of 16, the 24-year-old player was indeed forced to retire.

Lehecka injured in the ankle before the Australian Open

Thus, Lehecka, who was facing Sebastian Korda, injured his ankle and could not continue his match against the American. With the score at 6-3, 1-2 against him, the No. 3 seed in this tournament ultimately threw in the towel.

A tough blow for him, just days before the Australian Open. For his part, Korda secures his place in the quarterfinals and will face Alex Michelsen, who defeated Learner Tien.