The stage is all set for an emphatic finale at the ATP Rotterdam. The top seed at the event Carlos Alcaraz will be going up against Alex de Minaur. Both players, who made their way into the quarter-finals of the Australian Open are determined to show their skills on indoor hard courts. While the Spaniard might be the heavy favorite, one can never underestimate what De Minaur brings to the table. With the stage set for a thriller, who will come out on top?

Carlos Alcaraz vs Alex de Minaur: Preview

Carlos Alcaraz and Alex de Minaur will face off in the final, both having put on strong performances throughout the tournament. Alcaraz, ranked No. 3, showed his grit in a tough semifinal battle against Hubert Hurkacz, winning 6-4, 6-7(5), 6-3. The Spaniard was aggressive, firing 47 winners and maintaining an 80% success rate on his first serve. Despite conceding one break, he managed to break Hurkacz three times, ultimately controlling key moments in the match.

On the other hand, De Minaur, ranked No. 8, had a smoother path to the final, securing a dominant 6-1, 6-2 victory over Mattia Bellucci in the semifinal. The Aussie played efficiently, winning 78% of his first-serve points and 69% on his second-serve. He didn’t face a single break point, highlighting his strong service games. His return game was also clinical, as he converted all his break opportunities to dismantle Bellucci in straight sets.

Alcaraz vs de Minaur: Head-to-head

When it comes to the head-to-head stats, Alcaraz has a comfortable 2-0 lead over De Minaur. Their first encounter was in 2022 at the Barcelona Open, where Alcaraz won in a close three-setter by 6-7, 7-6, 6-4. One year later, these two stars faced each other yet again. This time, it was at the Cinch Championship in London. And, Alcaraz yet again came out on top with a 6-4, 6-4 win.

Prediction: Carlos Alcaraz to win his first title in 2025 with a win over Alex de Minaur

Coming into the finals, both players will be determined to lay their hands on the title. Alcaraz’s powerful baseline game and aggressive shot-making will be tested against De Minaur’s speed and counterpunching skills. The Spaniard has more firepower, but De Minaur’s consistency and ability to absorb pressure could make this an interesting battle. If Alcaraz controls the rallies and dictates with his forehand, he will have the upper hand.

The only factor that might go against Alcaraz is his record on the indoor hard courts, which isn’t great. Although he has been solid this tournament, he has yet to win a title on indoor courts. He would want to set it straight, but he is up against a tricky opponent. De Minaur’s ability to turn defense into offense could cause problems for Alcaraz, especially if the Aussie manages to extend rallies and wear down his opponent.

Prediction: In a tightly contested match, Carlos Alcaraz’s aggressive baseline play could prove to be the game-changer for him. While de Minaur might pose serious threats, Alcaraz’s experience might just help him pull off his first title of the season.