Feb 15 • 18:46 UTC 🇦🇺 Australia ABC News AU

'Third time lucky': de Minaur breaks through for Rotterdam Open triumph

Alex de Minaur wins his first indoor title by defeating Felix Auger-Aliassime at the Rotterdam Open.

In a thrilling final at the Rotterdam Open, Alex de Minaur overcame Felix Auger-Aliassime, securing a commanding victory with a score of 6-3, 6-2. This win marks a significant achievement for de Minaur as it represents his first indoor title after previously finishing as runner-up in the tournament for the last two years. Known for his tenacity and skill on hard courts, de Minaur demonstrated exceptional form throughout the match, effectively breaking Auger-Aliassime's serve after he had held it for 78 consecutive games, showcasing de Minaur's strategic prowess and ability to capitalize on critical moments.

The outcome of the match is not only a personal triumph for de Minaur, ranked world number eight, but it also underscores the competitive nature of men's tennis, with 20-year-old Auger-Aliassime, the world number six and Montpellier Open champion, falling short despite a strong season start. De Minaur expressed his joy post-match, stating, "third time lucky," highlighting both the pressure and determination that comes with competing at an elite level. This prestigious title adds to de Minaur's growing legacy and experience in the world of professional tennis.

As Australian tennis continues to bloom, de Minaur’s victory is likely to inspire upcoming players in Australia while also reinforcing his position on the ATP Tour. With this comeback victory, he sets a positive tone for his future tournaments, aiming to build momentum as the tour progresses. Furthermore, it raises questions about how this win might affect both players' morale and their standings in subsequent competitions, particularly as they prepare for further high-stakes matches ahead.

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