Argentina Open: Fonseca Makes History as Youngest ATP Clay Court Finalist Since Alcaraz
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Synopsis
In an exhilarating semifinal at the Argentina Open, 18-year-old Brazilian Joao Fonseca defeated Laslo Djere to become the youngest ATP finalist on clay since Carlos Alcaraz in 2021. Fonseca aims for his first ATP title against Francisco Cerundolo.
Key Takeaways
- Joao Fonseca is the youngest ATP finalist on clay since Carlos Alcaraz.
- He defeated Laslo Djere in a dramatic semifinal match.
- Fonseca aims for his first ATP title against Francisco Cerundolo.
- He is the youngest Brazilian ATP finalist in the Open Era.
- Fonseca rose to No. 74 in the ATP Live Rankings.
Buenos Aires, Feb 16 (NationPress) The 18-year-old Brazilian Joao Fonseca triumphed over Serbian Laslo Djere with a score of 7-6(3), 5-7, 6-1 in a thrilling semifinal match, advancing to the final of the Argentina Open. This victory makes him the youngest ATP finalist on clay since Carlos Alcaraz in 2021.
Fonseca is now the youngest South American ATP Tour finalist since former World No. 20 Jose Acasuso in 2001 (Buenos Aires). He will aim for his inaugural ATP Tour title against fifth seed Francisco Cerundolo, who defeated Pedro Martinez from Spain with a score of 6-2, 6-4 in just one hour and 33 minutes.
At the age of 18 years, 5 months, and 26 days, Fonseca ranks as the 10th youngest ATP Tour finalist since 2000 and the youngest Brazilian ATP finalist in the Open Era, according to ATP.
Fonseca earned his spot in Buenos Aires through the Next Gen Accelerator program, which expanded this year, giving 20-and-under players ranked in the Top 250 the chance for one ATP 250 main draw spot and two ATP 250 qualifying events this season.
In the semifinal, the Brazilian delivered an impressive performance, hitting 27 forehand winners and 11 backhand winners. He faced six break points in the first set but couldn't convert them. When it came to a tie-break, Fonseca maintained his composure, executing a stunning inside-in forehand at 3/1, as reported by ATP.
Fonseca commented, "Today was really difficult against a formidable opponent. He came through qualifying, so he's playing exceptional tennis. We were aware of Laslo's capabilities, especially as he won an ATP 500 in 2019. I gave it my all. It was a match fueled by heart and pain. Now, one more match remains, and I'm ready for it."
Following his semifinal victory, Fonseca rose 25 positions to No. 74 in the ATP Live Rankings, achieving a new career high set to be confirmed on Monday.
