Alcaraz Dominates Bellucci in US Open Second Round, Despite Self-Criticism

Carlos Alcaraz delivered a commanding performance at Arthur Ashe Stadium on Wednesday evening, securing a decisive victory against Italy’s Mattia Bellucci in the second round of the US Open. The match concluded with Alcaraz winning in three straight sets: 6-1, 6-0, and 6-3, propelling him into the third round of the tournament. Displaying remarkable form, the world No. 2 and 2022 champion exhibited no vulnerabilities, a stark contrast to his second-round exit in the previous year. Alcaraz’s dominance was evident from the outset, breaking Bellucci’s serve twice in the first set while showcasing his powerful forehand and refined net skills. While Bellucci managed to avoid a bagel in the first set by securing a single game, it did little to alter the momentum of the match. Following the match, Alcaraz shared, “I played great from the beginning to the last ball. I know Mattia’s level and today wasn’t his day, but I tried to make the most of his mistakes, trying to be in the match getting a good rhythm.” He further acknowledged, “I think a few things have to improve that I didn’t feel as good as I wanted, but in general I’m really happy with the performance today.” In the second set, Alcaraz accelerated his pace, achieving a 6-0 lead without conceding a single game. His near-flawless performance included 32 winners, an impressive 86% success rate on first-serve points, and no break-point opportunities given to Bellucci throughout the match. Bellucci showed resilience in the third set, holding his serve in the initial games and engaging in intense rallies with Alcaraz. Ultimately, the Spaniard’s consistency from the baseline proved decisive. A crucial break at 4-3 in the final set shifted the momentum firmly in Alcaraz’s favor, enabling him to close out the set and the match with a 6-3 scoreline, sealed by a double fault from Bellucci on match point. Alcaraz now advances to the third round, moving closer to potentially claiming a second US Open title with a display of clinical precision.