Alcaraz Triumphs Without Sinner in Rotterdam

Carlos Alcaraz clinched his first indoor title at the Rotterdam Open, seizing the opportunity in Jannik Sinner’s absence. The Spaniard defeated Alex de Minaur 6-4, 3-6, 6-2 in Sunday’s final.

When asked if he had missed his Italian rival, Alcaraz humorously replied:

“Not really! Now that I’m holding the trophy, I’m going to say that I didn’t miss him in the tournament.”

Alcaraz Overcomes Illness to Secure Victory

Despite battling a cold throughout the tournament, the world number three showed resilience. Wearing a nose-clip to help him breathe, he navigated through the matches and secured his 17th ATP title.

“This week has been really good. I came here not feeling 100 percent well, but every day I felt better and better.”

How Alcaraz Won the Final

• First Set: Alcaraz broke De Minaur early but was broken back at 4-4. However, a powerful backhand pass helped him regain the lead and close out the set.
• Second Set: De Minaur fought back, breaking early and holding on to level the match.
• Decisive Third Set: The match remained on serve until Alcaraz broke in the sixth game with a clever drop shot. De Minaur, serving to stay in the match at 5-2, double-faulted to hand Alcaraz two match points. A tired backhand into the net sealed the Spaniard’s victory.

De Minaur Falls Short Again

For De Minaur, this was his second consecutive Rotterdam Open final defeat, after losing to Sinner last year.

“It’s been two years with this runner-up trophy. I’m hoping I’ll get my hand on the winners’ one day.”

The Australian also admitted he had been struggling with illness but refused to use it as an excuse:

“I don’t need excuses. I go out there, compete, and tried my best. It wasn’t enough today.”

With this victory, Alcaraz continues his impressive run, proving he can dominate on indoor courts.