Czech tennis player Jiri Lehecka has defeated Britain's Jack Draper in the semi-finals of the Queen's Club Championships, dashing hopes of a home winner for the first time since Andy Murray's victory in 2016.
The match saw Draper struggle with his returns throughout, with Lehecka's powerful serving proving too much for the British player.
Draper departed the court immediately following his defeat, heading straight to the changing rooms without delay.
The loss means British tennis must wait at least another year to end its nine-year drought at the prestigious grass-court tournament in west London.
Draper displayed moments of resilience during the match, notably stepping up to the net to send a winner down the line that drew both player and crowd into a tense moment awaiting confirmation from the umpire.
However, his frustration became evident as the match progressed.
Jack Draper smashed his racket as he was broken in the third set
Reuters
After Lehecka struck a crucial backhand winner into the corner, Draper vented his anger on the advertising barriers, damaging his racquet in the process.
The British player also sustained red marking around his right knee after colliding with the advertising hoardings, though he continued to move without apparent difficulty.
His struggles with returning Lehecka's serves persisted throughout the encounter.
The match began with Draper committing a double fault, allowing Lehecka to make an ideal start.
The Czech player capitalised on this early advantage, with Draper's return landing in the tramlines to give Lehecka the opening set.
Despite facing break point pressure, Draper showed steel with crucial second serves that kept him competitive.
However, Lehecka's serving proved decisive throughout the encounter.
The Czech player sealed his victory with another powerful serve that left Draper struggling, with the Briton's return lacking control and bouncing long.
Jack Draper didn't make it easy throughout the semi-final
Reuters
Lehecka released a tremendous roar as he secured his place in the Queen's final.
Following his victory, Lehecka acknowledged the significance of reaching the match.
"It means a lot. You don't meet a player like Jack every day, he's an amazing competitor," the Czech told the BBC.
Jiri Lehecka proved a tough opponent for Jack Draper with a strong serve
Reuters
He also recognised the crowd's support despite their disappointment at the British player's defeat.
"I know your favourite didn't win today but I appreciate you being fair with me," he said.
Lehecka attributed part of his success to his serving strategy, explaining: "It's not easy to play that serve but I've been working on it for the last few weeks.
"I knew the transition from clay to grass I'd need to use it. I'm happy with it."
Lehecka awaits the winner of Carlos Alcaraz and Roberto Butista Agut in the all-Spanish semi-final.