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

Sunday, 16 February 2025 at 21:56

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

Cerundolo	VS	Fonseca
	Service
3	Aces	4
1	Double Faults	2
63% (41/65)	1st Service Percentage	65% (46/71)
54% (22/41)	1st Service Points Won	72% (33/46)
67% (16/24)	2nd Service Points Won	42% (11/26)
56% (5/9)	Break Points Saved	25% (1/4)
64% (7/11)	Service Games	73% (8/11)
	Return
28% (13/46)	1st Return Points Won	46% (19/41)
58% (15/26)	2nd Return Points Won	33% (8/24)
-	Break Points Saved	-
	Other
1h 47m	Match Duration	1h 47m

CAMPEÃO 🇧🇷 🏆

18-year-old starlet João Fonseca wins his first-ever ATP title, defeating Cerundolo 6-4 7-6 to win the Argentina Open! pic.twitter.com/aDRLwdpMFK
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) February 16, 2025

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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