Carlos Alcaraz Provides Health Update Ahead of Rotterdam Open Debut
Carlos Alcaraz has shared an update on his physical condition after battling illness in the lead-up to his Rotterdam Open debut.
The 21-year-old Spaniard, currently ranked world No. 3, is set to face Botic van de Zandschulp in his opening match at the ATP 500 event on Tuesday. This will be a rematch of their 2024 US Open second-round clash, where Alcaraz suffered a surprising straight-set defeat to the Dutchman.
Alcaraz has played just one tournament so far this season, losing to Novak Djokovic in the Australian Open quarter-finals. His preparation for Rotterdam, however, was disrupted by illness.
“I spent a few days at home after Australia, but I got a cold,” Alcaraz explained.
“I was struggling a little bit at home. I could only train for two days and then had to rest until the cold got better. But spending time at home, even when you’re sick, is always great. Having your family there allows you to reset mentally before traveling again.”
Nasal Strip Suggests Alcaraz is Still Recovering
Alcaraz was spotted wearing a nasal strip during his practice session in Rotterdam on Sunday, indicating he may not be fully recovered. He previously used the strip during the 2024 ATP Finals, where he struggled with similar respiratory issues.
“Today, I was a different person. The band-aid helped me to breathe a little better,” Alcaraz said after a match at the ATP Finals in November.
“I know Nico Jarry wears one too. It helped me a lot, so it’s something I’m going to wear more often.”
Tough Road Ahead in Rotterdam
As the top seed in Rotterdam, Alcaraz will be aiming for his first indoor hard-court title, having never reached a final at an indoor tournament.
The field includes defending champion Daniil Medvedev (No. 2 seed), along with Alex de Minaur, Andrey Rublev, Holger Rune, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Arthur Fils, and Hubert Hurkacz. Notably, Jannik Sinner—who won the title in 2024—has opted not to defend his crown.
If Alcaraz advances past van de Zandschulp, he could face an in-form Felix Auger-Aliassime in the second round. The Canadian has already won two titles in 2025, including his sixth indoor trophy in Montpellier last week.
With illness behind him, Alcaraz will be hoping to rediscover his best form and make a deep run in Rotterdam.
