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2mo ago

Brazilian Teen João Fonseca Advances at Indian Wells in Thrilling Debut

The 18-year-old rising star overcame windy conditions and a third-set deficit to defeat Jacob Fearnley and secure a second-round spot.

Image
Mar 6, 2025; Indian Wells, CA, USA; Joao Fonseca (BRA) hits a shot during his first round match as he defeated Jacob Fearnley (not pictured) in the BNP Paribas Open at the Indian Well Tennis Garden. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Kyrgios was forced to retire from Indian Wells.
Fearnley (left) and Fonseca were facing each other for the first time in their careers.

Overview

  • João Fonseca, an 18-year-old Brazilian tennis player, defeated Jacob Fearnley 6-2, 1-6, 6-3 in his Indian Wells debut, rallying from a third-set deficit to win the last five games.
  • Fonseca, who entered the tournament as a wild card, credited his focus and composure for his victory in challenging windy conditions on the center court of the ATP 1000 event.
  • The teenager has been making waves on the ATP Tour, with notable achievements including a victory over Andrey Rublev at the Australian Open and his first ATP title in Buenos Aires last month.
  • Fonseca’s rise has drawn comparisons to Carlos Alcaraz, with praise from top players like Novak Djokovic and Alexander Zverev for his talent, clean hitting, and fearless play under pressure.
  • Next, Fonseca will face 13th-seeded Jack Draper in the second round, continuing what has already been a breakout year for the young Brazilian.