Rotterdam Open: De Minaur ends final heartbreak to claim dominant glory
Alex de Minaur has finally conquered the Rotterdam Open, defeating Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-3 6-2 to lift the trophy at the third time of asking.
It marks the Australian’s 11th career ATP title and his first triumph since the Washington Open in 2025.
The victory provides sweet redemption for the tireless baseliner, who had suffered defeat in the previous two showpiece events at this venue.
Third time lucky
De Minaur had endured a painful recent history in the Netherlands, falling short against Jannik Sinner in 2024 and Carlos Alcaraz last year.
However, the determined 11-time tour winner ensured there would be no repeat of those disappointments on Sunday.
“I mean, third time lucky,” de Minaur said.
“I’m so super happy. It ended up being a great week here, a place where I always feel really, really good.”
He produced a clinical display to dismiss his opponent in straight sets, controlling the tempo from the back of the court.
“I was just a step short the previous years, so it feels great to finally be able to lift the title,” he added.
Auger-Aliassime falls short
Auger-Aliassime was also appearing in his third final at the prestigious indoor hard-court tournament.
The Canadian had previously found success in Rotterdam, claiming the silverware in 2020 against Gael Monfils and in 2022 against Stefanos Tsitsipas.
But the 2022 champion could not find the answers to halt the Australian’s momentum this time around.
De Minaur’s victory cements his status as a dominant force on indoor surfaces following a strong start to the 2026 season.