Carlos Alcaraz secured the first indoor title of his career by defeating Alex De Minaur at the ABN AMRO Open in Rotterdam on Sunday. The 21-year-old Spaniard was tested in three sets for the third time this week but once more emerged victorious, narrowly defeating third seed De Minaur 6-4 3-6 6-2. This was Alcaraz’s first appearance at the tournament, which consistently attracts a competitive field, and he concluded it with his first title of the season and the 17th of his career.
De Minaur had previously lost both matches against Alcaraz, yet he rallied back decisively after the top seed had taken the first set and pushed for a final set. The initial moments of the third set were closely contested, but Alcaraz’s added power and intensity ultimately prevailed, with the Spaniard claiming the last four games. Alcaraz arrived in Rotterdam battling a cold and again used a nasal strip to assist his breathing.
“It’s been a special week for me,” he said during the trophy ceremony. “Not only for the title but for the support I received from the first day.”
Addressing Alcaraz, Alex De Minaur said: “We always have some fun battles and I enjoyed my time very much on the court today. It’s been two years now with this runner-up trophy. I’m hoping I’ll get my hand on the winners one day.”
For de Minaur, finishing as the runner-up was a relived experience, as he was defeated by Sinner in last year’s final.
It’s been two years with this runner-up trophy. I’m hoping I’ll get my hand on the winners’ one day. I’m just looking forward to getting into bed and hopefully getting some rest.
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