Mattia Bellucci is preparing for one of the biggest moments of his career. The Italian will step onto Arthur Ashe Stadium alongside world no. 2 Carlos Alcaraz in the US Open second-round clash.
For the 24-year-old, the upcoming encounter brings back vivid memories of their very first meeting, which took place far away from the bright lights of New York.
Carlos and Mattia locked hornsin Manacor in January 2020 in the first round of the Futures event. The 16-year-old toppled the more experienced rival 6-2, 6-1 in an hour for a perfect start to the season.
Bellucci received a text message from his friend about Alcaraz, as he knew nothing about him. The friend's words turned to be 100% true, as the young gun outplayed him in every segment.
The Spaniard's relentless returning and lightning-fast timing left his rival with little chances to respond. Mattia knew he could not win after only three games, but he still enjoyed the experience of playing against someone with such promise.
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Less than five years later, Carlos is a five-time Major winner and one of the sport's biggest stars. Bellucci will have a chance to challenge him on the stadium where he cried when he stepped onto it for the first time!
Thus, it will be the fulfillment of a dream and a vision he had a couple of yearsagoas a qualifier. Instead of watching from the stands, Mattia will be on court facing one of the world's best players.
Win or lose, the Italian is determined to embrace the opportunity and savor every moment of a special occasion you do not get too often.
"A friend texted me that this guy will be very good. I did not know Carlos, as I did not play much in juniors. At that time, I did not recognize his name. After three games, I did not think about winning but only about being competitive.
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I lost 6-2, 6-1, and I did not expect that. I know him much better now! Hi returned like crazy. He took the ball very early, and I did not have time to do much. However, I remember I had fun during the match.
I was curious to play against him because everyone said he was good. Now, we will face at Arthur Ashe Stadium, and I can not wait. I will never forget when I first stepped onto it. I started crying, thinking about playing on it one day.
Now I have a chance, and I want to enjoy the opportunity. I last played on the main court versus Cameron Norrie on Court 1 at Wimbledon. I could not handle the pressure well, and I hope to change that against Carlos," Mattia Bellucci said.
