Alcaraz Sets Up Rotterdam Final Showdown With De Minaur

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Posted by NewAdmin on 2025-02-14 09:02:05 |

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Carlos Alcaraz fought his way into the Rotterdam Open final, overcoming a resilient Hubert Hurkacz in an intense three-set battle on Saturday. The Spanish world number three displayed remarkable court coverage and grit to claim a 6-4, 6-7 (5), 6-3 victory, setting up a title clash with Alex de Minaur.

Alcaraz Overcomes Early Struggles

The match started with Alcaraz on the back foot, as he was broken to love in his opening service game. Hurkacz quickly surged to a 3-0 lead, putting pressure on the Spaniard. However, Alcaraz saved multiple break points and fought back, breaking his opponent’s serve with an aggressive forehand smash after a grueling rally.

A crucial double-fault from Hurkacz handed Alcaraz an opportunity, and despite some resistance, the top seed sealed the first set with a forehand drive volley winner.

Tiebreak Drama in the Second Set

The second set remained on serve, leading to a tense tie-break. Both players had their chances, but a costly double-fault from Alcaraz at 5-4 allowed Hurkacz to take control. The Pole capitalized on the mistake and clinched the set after Alcaraz netted a routine backhand.

Decisive Third Set Seals Victory

The final set mirrored the first, with an early break for Alcaraz that ignited the Rotterdam crowd. Hurkacz struggled to mount a comeback as the Spaniard’s defensive resilience proved too strong. Serving at 5-3, Alcaraz secured his 22nd ATP final appearance with a stunning forehand winner down the line.

"I want to be the first Spanish player to win this tournament. I'm going to go for it," said the 21-year-old, eager to etch his name in Rotterdam’s history.

De Minaur Cruises Into Final

In the first semi-final, Alex de Minaur ended the giant-killing run of Mattia Bellucci, dispatching the Italian qualifier in dominant fashion, 6-1, 6-2.

Bellucci, who had stunned Daniil Medvedev and Stefanos Tsitsipas earlier in the tournament, struggled with unforced errors and failed to trouble the consistent Australian.

"I'm very happy with the level today," said De Minaur, who is aiming for redemption after finishing runner-up to Jannik Sinner last year.

Final Showdown Awaits

With both players in top form, the Rotterdam Open final promises to be an electrifying clash between Alcaraz’s power and resilience and De Minaur’s speed and consistency.

Will Alcaraz make history, or will De Minaur claim his first Rotterdam title? Sunday’s final will decide it all.

Go!