Top seed Alex De Minaur delivered a composed performance to defeat Arthur Fils in straight sets and book his place in the second round of the Rotterdam ATP 500.
First Set: Tie-Break Edge for De Minaur
De Minaur started the match aggressively, breaking Fils immediately and consolidating for a 2–0 lead. The early advantage, however, did not last long, as Fils responded with a break of his own to level the score at 2–2.
From that point on, both players held serve firmly, refusing to concede further opportunities. The set inevitably moved into a tie-break, where De Minaur raised his level and dominated the decisive moments, claiming it comfortably 7–3.
Second Set: De Minaur Pulls Away
The second set followed a similar early pattern, with De Minaur once again breaking early after holding serve and moving ahead 3–0. This time, however, he never allowed Fils back into the contest.
The Australian maintained pressure throughout the set and secured another break to extend his lead. Fils struggled to find rhythm and was unable to mount a serious comeback.
Consistency Makes the Difference
De Minaur closed out the match 7–6, 6–2, advancing without major complications.
Statistics reflected the difference in consistency. Fils committed 36 unforced errors compared to 20 from De Minaur, a gap that ultimately proved decisive. While the Frenchman showed flashes of quality, he was unable to sustain his level against the tournament’s top seed.
A strong crowd remained in attendance as De Minaur confidently progressed to the second round.
An overview of all opening-round matchups and results in Rotterdam is available in the full first round draw