Carlos Alcaraz delivered a statement performance in the U.S. Open’s second round, emphatically overcoming lingering doubts from last year’s early exit. The 2022 champion, who was stunned by Botic van de Zandschulp in the same round in 2024, admitted those memories haunted him as he stepped onto the court this time. “Some bad thoughts,” he confessed. “I was nervous about it, like thinking, okay, I don’t want to do the same thing as I did last year, losing in the second round.”
But any nerves quickly dissipated. Alcaraz bulldozed through Mattia Bellucci in a dominating 6-1, 6-0, 6-3 win over just 96 minutes. He accumulated 32 winners and won an outstanding 86% of his first-serve points. His clinical performance earns him a spot in the third round, where he’ll take on Italian Luciano Darderi.
Beyond the match itself, this win provides more than just advancement—it represents redemption. Alcaraz is now in strong form, looking to assert himself among Grand Slam contenders and potentially reclaim the No. 1 ranking, with the tournament’s results playing a key role.
Meanwhile, Novak Djokovic faced a tougher battle. The 24-time Grand Slam champion dropped the opening set of his second-round match against American qualifier Zachary Svajda but gradually settled into his rhythm. Ultimately, Djokovic turned things around, winning 6-7(5), 6-3, 6-3, 6-1.
He admitted that the early portion of the match was not his best, describing his opening struggles as a “riddle” he continually tries to figure out. Physical factors might have played a part—Djokovic returned to Grand Slam action after skipping the summer Masters events to spend time with family, and he battled a blister and early fatigue in his first-round match.
Despite that shaky start, Djokovic’s resolve won the day. He next faces Briton Cameron Norrie, a formidable opponent who advanced in a hard-fought four-set victory himself.
What This Means
- Alcaraz looked every bit the elite player he’s becoming: composed, powerful, and mentally resilient. More importantly, he’s turned last year’s disappointment into fuel for success this year.
- Djokovic, though not at his absolute sharpest yet, remains composed under pressure. His ability to recover mid-match speaks to the strategic poise that continues to define his tennis legacy.
The stage is set for an intriguing progression through the draw—both men are now heading into the third round, keeping alive hopes of a deeper run in New York.
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