“Fonseca Mania is everywhere”: Joao Fonseca embraces crowd support ahead of Berrettini clash in Monte-Carlo

Thursday, 09 April 2026 at 01:01

Joao Fonseca continued the start of his clay swing at the 2026 Monte-Carlo Masters, where the 19-year-old Brazilian advanced to the third round and set up a high-profile clash against Matteo Berrettini. Currently ranked World No. 40, Fonseca arrives at this stage as the youngest player left in the draw, reinforcing his status as one of the standout emerging names on the Tour.

The Brazilian secured his place in the next round with a three-set win over Arthur Rinderknech, prevailing 7-5, 4-6, 6-3 in a physically demanding contest. The match underlined both his resilience and his growing comfort on clay, a surface he has repeatedly identified as one of his strengths early in his professional development.

Fonseca’s progress in Monte-Carlo follows a period of steady consolidation at the top level. After dealing with physical issues earlier in the season, he regained rhythm during the hard-court swing, competing in high-level events such as Indian Wells and Miami, where he faced elite opposition including Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz.

Now competing in just his first full clay-court Masters 1000 campaign, Fonseca is combining competitive results with growing attention off the court, driven largely by strong crowd support. He has already secured his return to the Top 35, and is approaching seeded positions for upcoming major challenges in Madrid, Rome and Roland Garros.

Brazilian crowd backing grows around Fonseca

Fonseca pointed to the role of the crowd as a key element in his recent performances, particularly during tight moments such as the deciding stages of his win over Rinderknech. The Brazilian crowd was especially present in Miami a few weeks ago, but this time in Monte-Carlo once again Fonseca has been among the most supported players, with Brazilian flags visible throughout the stands.

“I think there are Brazilians everywhere,” Fonseca said in press conference, noting that even a small group of supporters can generate significant noise. “For me today in the third set was difficult, and then the crowd helped me to stay positive, to stay in the game. I’m very happy. The support from the fans is really important.”

The emergence of what has been informally labelled “Fonseca Mania” reflects a broader trend tied to the growth of tennis in Brazil. Fonseca acknowledged that interest in the sport is increasing, with more fans travelling and engaging with tournaments internationally. “In Brazil, tennis is getting bigger and bigger,” he said. “The Brazilian crowd are following more and more tennis.”

Berrettini test presents step up in level

Fonseca’s next opponent, Matteo Berrettini, presents a significant step up in level and experience. The Italian, currently ranked World No. 90 after returning from injury, arrives in strong form, having produced one of the most dominant results of the tournament with a 6-0, 6-0 victory over World No. 10 Daniil Medvedev.

The matchup also carries historical context, with Berrettini having defeated Fonseca in their only previous meeting during the 2024 Davis Cup. The Brazilian acknowledged the difference in conditions but expects a similarly demanding contest.

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“He has a great serve, great forehand, and he plays well on clay. It’s going to be a tough match for sure,” the former World No. 25 said. “I’m feeling confident, I’m feeling good this week. The conditions are good for me. It’s going to be a good match.”

With a 7-5 record so far in the 2026 season and a positive start on clay, Fonseca enters the contest with momentum, but also facing one of his most demanding tests at Masters 1000 level.

Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist

Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.

His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.

In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.

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