M 1000 MIAMI. By Emiliano Naftali
Brazilian Joao Fonseca, ranked No. 60 in the world, dropped only four points on serve throughout the match and defeated France’s Ugo Humbert (No. 20) 6-4, 6-3 to advance at the Miami Open. The Buenos Aires ATP champion, who claimed his first career title earlier this season, is just 18 years old and has now reached this stage at a Masters 1000 event for the first time. Previously, he had been eliminated in the second round in both of his prior appearances at this level, in Madrid 2024 and Indian Wells 2025.
Photo: Gabriel Matteazzi
As if that weren’t enough, Fonseca struck blistering forehands and backhands throughout the match and surrendered just four points on serve. Thanks to this dominant performance, the young Brazilian—who will climb the ATP rankings—can say he played a nearly flawless match on U.S. soil.
Additionally, Fonseca set another remarkable record at the Miami Open: the Rio de Janeiro native has become the youngest player to reach the third round of the tournament since Argentine tennis legend Juan Martín del Potro did so back in 2007.
A Brazilian Legacy: Gustavo Kuerten’s Mark on Tennis
Brazilian tennis has a rich history, and while Fonseca is making headlines now, it’s impossible not to recall the impact of Gustavo Kuerten, one of Brazil’s greatest players. Known as “Guga,” Kuerten was a three-time Roland Garros champion (1997, 2000, 2001) and reached No. 1 in the ATP rankings in 2000. His charismatic personality and dominant clay-court game made him a fan favorite worldwide.
Kuerten also had memorable moments at the Miami Open, notably reaching the final in 2000, where he fell to Pete Sampras in straight sets. His run in Miami solidified his status as a world-class competitor beyond clay courts. Today, Fonseca follows in Kuerten’s footsteps, hoping to leave his own mark on Brazilian and global tennis.