Alexander Zverev reveals what he said to Joao Fonseca in Brazil after he was knocked out in the first round
Joao Fonseca Suffers Early Rio Open Exit After Historic Title Win
Joao Fonseca’s Rio Open campaign ended in disappointment, just days after celebrating his maiden ATP title.
The 18-year-old Brazilian made headlines last week by winning the Argentina Open, defeating Francisco Cerundolo to claim his first ATP Tour title. Returning home for the Rio Open, Fonseca assured fans he was fully fit and free of injury concerns.
However, his momentum was halted in the first round, where he fell in straight sets to Alexandre Muller in front of an energetic home crowd. After the match, Fonseca acknowledged the challenges that contributed to his defeat.
Despite his victory, Muller spoke highly of Fonseca, predicting a bright future for the young star.
Alexander Zverev’s Advice to Joao Fonseca at the Rio Open
Alexander Zverev, who has been in regular contact with Fonseca, offered words of encouragement following the teenager’s loss.
Speaking in his press conference at the Rio Open, Zverev reassured Fonseca that early exits after a breakthrough win are part of the journey.
“I told him it’s perfectly normal to lose early in the week after winning your first title,” said Zverev. “I really like him, both as a player and as a person. He’ll definitely be in the top 10 or top 5, but things don’t happen overnight. It won’t happen now or tomorrow.”
Fonseca will now turn his focus to the Sunshine Double, where he is set to make his main draw debut at Indian Wells after receiving a wildcard entry.
Zverev Evaluates His Own Performance in Rio
While Fonseca’s journey in Rio ended early, Zverev has advanced to the quarter-finals, winning both of his matches in straight sets.
Despite his success, Zverev admitted he was not satisfied with his first-round performance against Yunchaokete Bu. However, after a hard-fought victory over Alexander Shevchenko—secured through two tiebreak sets—he felt more positive about his game.
Zverev also pointed out an issue with the tournament’s balls, something Carlos Alcaraz has also linked to injury concerns.
“I think I played better today than in the first round,” Zverev said. “The balls here are a bit dead—it’s bad for my elbow—but I feel like I’m improving. Historically, I always play better on clay from the third or fourth week onwards, so I’m happy with my level.”
The German is determined to capture his first Grand Slam title at Roland Garros this year, after coming within one set of victory in the 2024 French Open final against Alcaraz.
Before that, however, he will continue his quest for the Rio Open title, facing Francisco Comesana in the quarter-finals.
