In a captivating final at the 2025 Barcelona Open Banc Sabadell, Denmark’s Holger Rune defeated Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz 7–6(6), 6–2, securing his first ATP 500 title and ending Alcaraz’s nine-match winning streak.
Match overview
The first set was tightly contested, with both players exchanging breaks. Alcaraz, the top seed and two-time defending champion, took an early lead, but Rune displayed resilience, breaking back and forcing a tiebreak. In the tiebreak, Rune capitalized on Alcaraz’s unforced errors, clinching the set on his fifth set point.
In the second set, Alcaraz appeared hampered by a right leg issue, requiring medical attention. Rune took full advantage, dominating the set and closing out the match in just over an hour and forty minutes.
Player reactions
Reflecting on his performance, Rune said, “It means the world, it was such a great match. In the beginning, I was a little bit stressed because Carlos obviously plays big-time tennis. I had to breathe a lot and find my rhythm.”
Alcaraz, gracious in defeat, acknowledged Rune’s superior play. “No ha podido ser, pero he dado todo lo que tenía,” he remarked, expressing that he gave his all despite the loss.
Implications
Rune’s victory marks his fifth ATP Tour title and his first since the 2023 BMW Open. The win also propels him back into the ATP Top 10, underscoring his resurgence on the tour.
For Alcaraz, the loss not only ended his winning streak but also raised concerns about his physical condition. He subsequently withdrew from the Madrid Open to focus on recovery ahead of the French Open.
The 2025 Barcelona Open final showcased the emergence of a new rivalry in men’s tennis, with Rune and Alcaraz poised to be central figures in the sport’s next chapter.