Joao Fonseca silences the local crowd and wins his first ATP 250 title against Francisco Cerundolo

Joao Fonseca silenced the Argentine crowd and secured his first ATP 250 title at the Argentina Open after defeating local star Francisco Cerundolo 6-4, 6-4. The Brazilian continues his incredible form, claiming his first ATP trophy at just 18 years old.

Fonseca had already defeated three local players on his way to the final (Etcheverry, Coria, and Navone) and overcame the pressure of the home crowd to emerge victorious.

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The first set began with both players dropping serve in their opening service games. It was a baseline battle, with Fonseca constantly targeting Cerundolo’s backhand to force errors. The 18-year-old secured another break in the seventh game, giving him the decisive edge to close out the set, aided by a strong serve.

The Brazilian was impressive, winning 80% of his first-serve points compared to just 50% from his opponent. He also outperformed Cerundolo on return, winning 44% of return points versus the Argentine’s 36%. Fonseca remained composed and sealed the set 6-4, putting himself in control of the match.

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The second set started evenly, though Cerundolo struggled more with his service games. In the rallies, Fonseca’s forehand proved superior, though the Argentine showed courage in trying to take control of the points.

Fonseca took the lead with a break in the fifth game and held his serve to go up 5-3. The Brazilian had the chance to close out the match on serve, but Cerundolo broke back, keeping his hopes alive and leveling the set at 5-5.

Both secured a break in the 11th and 12th games, and everything was decided in the tie-break after Fonseca seemed to have the title in his hands twice. This time, the Brazilian didn’t let the set slip away and quickly took a 4-0 lead at the start of the tie-break. After gaining the advantage, he held his service points and eventually sealed a hard-fought victory, 6-4, 7-6(3).

Match Stats

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