Tue Feb 04 20:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Alcaraz Returns to Competition in Rotterdam, Facing Doubts and Slow Courts

**ROTTERDAM, Netherlands** – Carlos Alcaraz, fresh off a quarterfinal loss at the Australian Open to a reportedly injured Novak Djokovic, returns to competition at the Rotterdam Open. The Spaniard’s mental state following the defeat is a major question mark, as is his adaptation to the notoriously slow indoor courts, a surface he’s never played on. He faces Dutchman Botic Van de Zandschulp in his opening match, a player who thrives indoors but is currently on a losing streak. Alcaraz’s preparation is further hampered by his doubles final appearance in Montpellier this Sunday.

Several other players enter the tournament with less than ideal preparation. Roberto Bautista Agut withdrew from the Davis Cup after becoming a father for the second time. Pedro Martinez, meanwhile, is leading the Spanish Davis Cup effort, but his commitment may impact his Rotterdam performance.

Other notable storylines include:

* **Holger Rune:** Recovering from an initial Davis Cup loss, Rune’s strong comeback performance may boost his confidence, although his inconsistency remains a concern.
* **Lorenzo Sonego:** After a stunning Australian Open run, Sonego aims to prove his quarterfinal appearance wasn’t a fluke, despite a poor Rotterdam record.
* **Andrey Rublev:** His mental fragility was again exposed in Montpellier, despite a strong start. However, Rotterdam’s slow courts historically suit him well.
* **Other players with question marks** include Hubert Hurkacz (injury recovery), Aleksandar Kovacevic (fatigue from Montpellier final run), and Stefanos Tsitsipas (poor start to the year).

The article also previews several other matches highlighting players’ form, preparation, and court suitability, making predictions based on these factors. The article concludes with a responsible gambling reminder.

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