Coleman and Carlos: The buzz makers on dramatic Day 2 at US Open 2025

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New Delhi: Day 2 at Flushing Meadows had a mix of history, style and power as two young players grabbed the spotlight in their own ways. The World No.2 Carlos Alcaraz opened his US Open campaign with a straight-sets win, but it wasn’t just his performance that had people talking. The Spaniard arrived on court with a brand-new look and his shaved head created as much noise as his forehand winners.

Alcaraz opened her campaign against American Reilly Opelka under the lights at Arthur Ashe Stadium, and needed just two hours to complete a 6-4, 7-5, 6-4 victory. The 22-year-old was clinical, winning 50 of 58 first-serve points, making only 17 unforced errors and saving all three break points he faced. He also improved to an incredible 19-0 in first-round matches at Grand Slams, a testament to his consistency at the highest level.

The haircut became an instant talking point even before the match began. Alcaraz even joked about it with the crowd after the win, asking if they approved of his fresh style. The fans responded with loud cheers, signalling their approval. Earlier in the day, he even bumped into golf star Rory McIlroy, who couldn’t resist rubbing his hand over the new buzz cut.

Not everyone was impressed with his haircut, though. Frances Tiafoe, who shared a memorable semifinal with Alcaraz in 2022, was brutally honest when asked for his opinion. “It’s horrible. It’s terrible,” Tiafoe laughed, adding that while Carlos is still his guy, the look was far from stylish in his eyes.

Coleman Wong made history

If Alcaraz’s night was about style and substance, Coleman Wong’s moment was about history. The 21-year-old became the first man from Hong Kong to win a Grand Slam singles match in the Open era, defeating American Aleksander Kovacevic 6-4, 7-5, 7-6 (4). The achievement was deeply personal for Wong, who called it a big moment not just for himself but for Hong Kong tennis.

The young player has worked hard to reach this stage. His family moved to Spain so he could train at the Rafa Nadal Academy, and Nadal sent him a congratulatory message after the win. Wong admitted he hadn’t even replied yet, still trying to soak in the emotions of the historic day.

Along with him, the other trailblazer at this year’s tournament. Alexandra Eala made history for the Philippines and Renata Zarazua stunned sixth seed Madison Keys to mark a rare win for Mexico. Though for Wong the job isn’t done. “This is where I want to be,” he said, already looking ahead to his next match against Adam Walton.

Two players, two very different journeys but both left their mark on an eventful Day 2 at the U.S. Open and will look to add more to the list in the coming days.