ROTTERDAM, Netherlands — In a thrilling showdown, Carlos Alcaraz clinched his inaugural indoor championship by overcoming Alex de Minaur in the Rotterdam Open final this past Sunday.
Seeded at the top, Alcaraz triumphed with scores of 6-4, 3-6, 6-2, marking a significant milestone as he became the first Spanish player to win this esteemed tournament in its 52-year legacy.
This victory adds to Alcaraz’s impressive collection, bringing his title count to 17 at just 21 years of age, and it’s his first accolade secured indoors.
“This week has been incredible,” Alcaraz expressed. “I put in a lot of hard work. Although I didn’t come in feeling 100 percent due to the cold weather, each day I’ve felt progressively better.”
“It was my debut here, and the way you (the fans) supported me made it feel like I’ve been part of this tournament for ages.”
Meanwhile, De Minaur reflected on his experience, having faced Jannik Sinner in last year’s Rotterdam final. “We’re striving for greater achievements,” the Australian noted. “It’s been two years with this runner-up trophy; I’m eager to hold the winner’s one someday.”
