Alcaraz exorcises second-round demons, Djokovic recovers from slow start at US Open

Carlos Alcaraz, of Spain returns a shot to Mattia Bellucci, of Italy, during the second round of the U.S. Open. Pic: AP Photo/Adam Hunger

Carlos Alcaraz demolished Mattia Bellucci to banish memories of last year's shock early exit, while Novak Djokovic shook off a sluggish start to reach the third round on Wednesday and stay on course for a potential semi-final showdown with the Spaniard.

Alcaraz lost to Botic van de Zandschulp in the second round last year and while he made no mistake this time around he admitted that the stunning straight-sets defeat by the Dutchman had left a mark.