João Fonseca Shines Bright at the French Open

Fonseca Makes a Statement

Fonseca didn’t get an easy start. Facing one of the most in-form players on tour, he could’ve easily been overpowered. Even if clay isn’t Hurkacz’s favorite surface, he has proven himself on it — winning titles, reaching the quarterfinals in Rome, and making the final in Geneva, where he nearly defeated Djokovic. Yet in Paris, it was a different story: Hurkacz had no answers for Fonseca’s firepower.

Backed by a rowdy crowd of Brazilian fans, the 18-year-old cruised to a 6–2, 6–4, 6–2 win in under two hours. His clean hitting and composed demeanor turned heads, and highlights of his play — including a jaw-dropping backhand winner — lit up social media.

A Special Win

What many may forget is that this was Fonseca’s debut at Roland Garros — and only the third Grand Slam main-draw match of his career. Even more impressively, it’s not even his biggest win. Earlier this year in Melbourne, he stunned former world No. 5 Andrey Rublev in the first round of the Australian Open.

“It’s always special to play in front of the Brazilian crowd. My first time here in the main draw — a dream come true,” said Fonseca after his victory. He also revealed that clay is currently his favorite surface. “My forehand and mentality are my biggest strengths,” he added. “But I still need to improve my backhand, defense, serve, and net game.”

Respect From Hurkacz

Even Hurkacz was full of praise for his young opponent after the match. He admitted it had been one-way traffic from the beginning and, while mentioning some fatigue from a packed schedule in recent months, he offered no excuses. Instead, he gave Fonseca his due:

“It’s spectacular how he plays, he has enormous potential. Besides that, he’s a good guy — I wish him all the best.”

What’s Next for Fonseca?

On paper, his second-round match should be less demanding. He’ll face Pierre-Hugues Herbert, a French wild card currently ranked No. 147 in the world. Still, the atmosphere will be a sharp contrast. This time, the crowd won’t be on his side. While Brazilian fans will certainly be loud, the French supporters are known for their passion and will be out in full force to cheer for their countryman.

Yet all eyes are already turning to a potential third-round blockbuster against either Jack Draper or Gaël Monfils. Regardless of who stands on the other side of the net, that match is shaping up to be unmissable.