Joao Fonseca spoke after winning the Challenger 175 in Phoenix, taking the positives from his loss to Jack Draper at Indian Wells. The Brazilian star was surprised in the first round of the Masters 1000 and decided to travel to Phoenix to stay in rhythm while out of competition.
The world No. 60 highlighted the high level of the Challenger he played – considering it could easily have been an ATP 250 due to the calibre of players. Fonseca shared the stage with several who exited early at Tennis Garden, defeating opponents like Jan-Lennard Struff, Kei Nishikori, and Alexander Bublik in the final.
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“This Challenger could have easily been an ATP 250 thanks to the excellent players present,” he told Gill Gross in an interview. “I’m trying to focus on being more solid and aggressive, attacking the lines.”
The 18-year-old also reflected on his painful 4-6, 0-6 loss to Jack Draper. The Brit overwhelmed Fonseca at the start of what turned into unforgettable weeks for Draper, culminating in his first Masters 1000 title.
“I wasn’t successful against Draper at Indian Wells. My game is based on aggression, and I like playing that way. I accepted making more mistakes and hitting more winners. But I want to be more solid in key moments, and I’m trying to understand how to handle those situations.”
Fonseca also shared an important mindset that guides him: “My coach and I have a saying: ‘Pressure is a privilege.’ Pressure will always be there, as will expectations. That’s why we need to stay focused and surround ourselves with people who can help us. I stay focused on myself, what I have to do, my routine, and what I want to achieve.”
Fonseca will make his Miami Open debut on Thursday night against a familiar rival: 19-year-old Learner Tien. The two have already faced off twice at the 2024 Next Gen ATP Finals, in both the Round Robin and the final, with Fonseca emerging victorious on both occasions. This time, the stage will be a Masters 1000, featuring two of the most exciting young names on the ATP Tour.
Match Statistics Draper vs. Fonseca
| Draper | VS | Fonseca |
|---|---|---|
| Service | ||
| 6 | Aces | 0 |
| 5 | Double Faults | 1 |
| 55% (33/60) | 1st Service Percentage | 52% (24/46) |
| 76% (25/33) | 1st Service Points Won | 58% (14/24) |
| 44% (12/27) | 2nd Service Points Won | 36% (8/22) |
| 86% (6/7) | Break Points Saved | 38% (3/8) |
| 88% (7/8) | Service Games | 38% (3/8) |
| Return | ||
| 42% (10/24) | 1st Return Points Won | 24% (8/33) |
| 64% (14/22) | 2nd Return Points Won | 56% (15/27) |
| - | Break Points Saved | - |
| Other | ||
| 1h 16m | Match Duration | 1h 16m |
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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