February 09, (THEWILL) – Carlos Alcaraz claimed his initial indoor championship at the Rotterdam Open, defeating Alex de Minaur in three sets 6-4, 3-6, 6-2. The Spanish tennis star, ranked World No 3, demonstrated superior shot-making ability throughout the match against the eighth-ranked Australian competitor.
Despite starting the tournament with health concerns and wearing a nose clip to aid breathing, Alcaraz maintained control during crucial moments of the match. The opening set established the pattern, with Alcaraz breaking early before De Minaur equalised, only for the Spaniard to regain momentum and take the first set 6-4.
De Minaur mounted a strong response in the second set, establishing an early 3-0 advantage. The Australian maintained his composure throughout the set, capitalising on several unforced errors from Alcaraz to level the match at one set each. This marked a significant shift in the competition’s dynamics.
The final set demonstrated Alcaraz’s championship qualities. The decisive breakthrough arrived in the sixth game when Alcaraz executed an effective drop shot, forcing De Minaur into an error. The match concluded with De Minaur committing a double fault, followed by a backhand error, gifting Alcaraz his 17th tour title.
For De Minaur, the result marked a second consecutive Rotterdam Open final defeat, following his loss to Jannik Sinner in 2024. The Australian remained optimistic about future opportunities, stating: “It has been two years with this runner-up trophy. I am hoping I will get my hand on the winners’ one day.”
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
