Carlos Alcaraz Triumphs in Rotterdam, Dashes Alex de Minaur’s Title Hopes Again
Carlos Alcaraz added another trophy to his growing collection, claiming his 17th career title at the ATP 500 Rotterdam Open with a hard-fought 6-4, 3-6, 6-2 victory over Alex de Minaur in Sunday’s final.
The world No. 3 overcame illness and a determined opponent to secure his first title of the season, further asserting his dominance on the ATP Tour.
Alcaraz’s Playful Jab at Absent Rival Jannik Sinner
Alcaraz’s victory came in the absence of Jannik Sinner, who withdrew from the tournament following his Australian Open triumph.
Asked if he had missed his Italian rival, Alcaraz quipped:
“Not really! Now that I’m holding the trophy, I’m going to say that I didn’t miss him in the tournament.”
However, he did acknowledge that Sinner’s presence could have made for a thrilling showdown.
“It could have been great having him and me in the same tournament. Probably we could have played a great final.”
A Tough Battle Against a Resilient De Minaur
Despite not feeling 100% due to a cold, Alcaraz navigated a tricky final against an ever-fighting De Minaur, who was aiming to claim his first Rotterdam title after finishing runner-up last year.
“This week has been a really good week. I came here not feeling 100% well with a cold, but every day I felt better and better.”
Wearing a nose clip throughout the week to aid his breathing, Alcaraz powered through a three-set battle against the Australian.
Match Recap: Momentum Swings and a Decisive Third Set
- First Set: Alcaraz broke first in the third game but was pegged back at 4-4 when De Minaur fought back. A crucial backhand pass helped the Spaniard reclaim the lead before sealing the set 6-4.
- Second Set: De Minaur seized momentum early, breaking Alcaraz and racing to a 3-0 lead. Despite some missed opportunities, he held his nerve and leveled the match 6-3 as Alcaraz struggled with unforced errors.
- Third Set: Alcaraz raised his level, breaking De Minaur in the sixth game and finishing the match emphatically. The Australian double-faulted on match point before netting a backhand, handing the Spaniard the win.
“Vamos!” roared Alcaraz as he celebrated with the crowd.
Heartbreak for De Minaur Once Again
For De Minaur, the defeat was a case of déjà vu, as he also lost last year’s final—that time to Sinner.
“It’s been two years with this runner-up trophy. I’m hoping I’ll get my hand on the winner’s one day,” said De Minaur.
The world No. 8 later revealed that he, too, had been battling illness during the tournament.
“I’m just looking forward to getting into bed and hopefully getting some rest. I don’t need excuses, I go out there, compete, I tried my best, wasn’t enough today.”
What’s Next for Alcaraz?
Alcaraz’s victory in Rotterdam sets a strong tone for the rest of his season, as he now turns his focus toward the upcoming Sunshine Double—Indian Wells and Miami.
With Sinner and Novak Djokovic also in top form, could we be set for another Alcaraz-Sinner showdown soon?
What did you think of the final? Share your thoughts in the comments! 🚀🎾
