Alcaraz Advances with Authority at the US Open
In a demonstration of power and determination, Carlos Alcaraz, the world number two, advanced to the next round of the US Open after a dominant victory. The Spanish tennis player, known for his explosive game, prevailed with authority in his second-round match. Alcaraz, who recently got a haircut, the result of an incident with his brother, proved to be in top form. He needed just over an hour and a half to defeat Mattia Bellucci of Italy, who is ranked 65th, with a score of 6-1, 6-0 and 6-3. The match took place at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Alcaraz’s performance was remarkable, winning 86% of the points on his first serve and not facing a single break point. Furthermore, he achieved a 32-11 advantage in winners. His four lost games represent his lowest amount in a completed major match. This victory contrasts with what happened in the second round of the US Open in 2024, where Alcaraz suffered an unexpected straight-sets defeat.Alcaraz, winner of his first Grand Slam title at the US Open in 2022, has won all his service games in the first two rounds at Flushing Meadows. In addition, he has held his serve in 32 consecutive games, going back to the Cincinnati Open semifinals. This victory represents Alcaraz’s 79th triumph in a major tournament, in his nineteenth Grand Slam appearance. Among the men who debuted in the Open era, only John McEnroe, Bjorn Borg, and Rafael Nadal have achieved more victories in their first 19 appearances in tournaments of this category. Alcaraz will seek his number 80 victory on Friday against Luciano Darderi, the number 32 seed. It will be the first match between both players.“I played very well, to be honest. Today wasn’t his day. I tried to make the most of his mistakes,” Alcaraz commented.
Carlos Alcaraz
