João Fonseca Faces Early Rio Open Exit After Historic ATP Title Win

The 18-year-old Brazilian cites mental challenges playing on home soil just days after his breakthrough victory in Buenos Aires.

João Fonseca, 18, lost in the first round of the Rio Open to Alexandre Muller, 6-1, 7-6(4), in front of a home crowd.
The loss comes just two days after Fonseca claimed his first ATP title at the Argentina Open, defeating Francisco Cerundolo in the final.
Fonseca admitted nerves and the pressure of playing in front of a packed home crowd impacted his performance, despite being physically prepared.
With his victory in Buenos Aires, Fonseca became the youngest South American ATP champion in the Tour's modern era and rose to a career-high ranking of World No. 68.
Fonseca is set to compete next at the Indian Wells Masters, where he may receive a main-draw wildcard.