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Joao Fonseca Shines at Australian Open, Upsets Rublev
In a remarkable display of skill and confidence, 18-year-old Brazilian Joao Fonseca has emerged as a rising star in men’s tennis following his straight-sets victory over ninth seed Andrey Rublev at the Australian Open. Fonseca’s win, with scores of 7-6 (7-1), 6-3, and 7-6 (7-5), not only showcased his powerful forehand but also signaled a shift in his tournament expectations.
Having already made a name for himself by winning the Next Gen ATP Finals, Fonseca’s performance has catapulted him into the spotlight, and he is set to face Italy’s Lorenzo Sonego in the second round. Reflecting on his aspirations, Fonseca mentioned, “When I arrived here, my first goal was to qualify for the main draw. Of course, my expectations are bigger now. I want more and more. I think that’s the mentality of a champion.”
Despite the considerable pressure, Fonseca stated he did not view himself as the favorite against Rublev. “I’m an 18-year-old guy, he’s a top-10 guy. I’m going to do my best here,” he insisted, highlighting his desire to remain focused and composed, even amidst the nerves of competition.
Medvedev’s Frustrations Amid Victory
In contrast, Daniil Medvedev’s first-round match was marked by frustration as he faced world No. 418 Kasidit Samrej. The fifth seed experienced a tumultuous battle, including a dramatic outburst that resulted in the destruction of a net camera after he lost the third set. Medvedev had difficulty finding his rhythm, stating, “Second and third set, I couldn’t touch the ball.”
Ultimately, he managed to recover, sealing the match 6-2, 4-6, 3-6, 6-1, 6-2. Reflecting on his recent struggles and the arrival of his second child, Medvedev expressed hope that this new chapter would bolster his performance. “In the end of last year, this match, I probably would have lost it. New year, new energy,” he said with optimism.
Other Highlights from the Tournament
The tournament has been filled with notable performances, including that of Holger Rune, who took five sets to overcome China’s Zhang Zhizhen. Additionally, veteran player Gael Monfils triumphed in a thrilling match against compatriot Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, who impressed with the tournament’s fastest serve at 144.2 mph. Monfils commented on the age debate in the sport, saying, “I don’t really look up my age. It is just a number.”
In other matches, fourth seed Taylor Fritz made quick work of his opponent Jenson Brooksby, finishing with a decisive score of 6-2, 6-0, 6-3. Meanwhile, Ben Shelton secured his first win of the year against Brandon Nakashima in a tightly contested matchup.
Upcoming Tournaments
ABN AMRO Open Rotterdam (ATP 500) – 3-9 February
Dallas Open (ATP 500) – 3-9 February
Delray Beach Open (ATP 250) – 10-16 February
IEB+ Argentina Open (ATP 250) – 10-16 February
Open 13 Provence (ATP 250) – 10-16 February
Transylvania Open (WTA 250) – 3-9 February
Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open (WTA 500) – 3-8 February
Qatar TotalEnergies Open (WTA 1000) – 9-15 February
Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships (WTA 1000) – 16-22 February
Source
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