Why Alcaraz is 'red-hot favourite' for third Wimbledon title

Carlos Alcaraz arrived in London with "no expectations" but with Wimbledon only a week away he has sent an ominous message to his rivals as he seeks a third successive title.

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The world number two beat Jiri Lehecka in the final at Queen's, claiming the crown for the second time and extending his winning streak - the longest of his career to a remarkable 18 matches.

After beating Roberto Bautista Agut in Saturday's semi-final, the Spaniard said "grass-court mode is activated".

He wasn't lying.

This fourth grass-court title means that Serbia's Novak Djokovic is the only active player to have more titles on the surface than Alcaraz.

"I came here with no expectations at all," Alcaraz said.

"I just came here with a goal to play two, three matches, try to feel great on grass moving and give myself the feedback of what I have to improve.

"But I got used to the grass really quick, and I'm just really proud about it. My goal was complete, and I'm not talking about lifting the trophy or making the final."

Alcaraz's last defeat came back in April against Holger Rune in the Barcelona Open final and he has reached five successive ATP finals, picking up four titles.

Winning Queen's is a good omen for Alcaraz. He lifted the title in 2023 and then went on to triumph at Wimbledon.

Just eight men have completed that double within the same summer in the Open era.

"You can't really expect better form for him to come into Wimbledon, he's obviously the player to beat," former Wimbledon champion Pat Cash said on BBC Radio 5 Live.

"I wouldn't back against him winning the title at Wimbledon ... Alcaraz, red-hot favourite for sure."

Alcaraz aiming for rare summer double

Alcaraz has won five Grand Slam titles across three events, with the Australian Open the only trophy missing from his swelling cabinet.