TENNIS: After Sinner test in Indian Wells, Fonseca books Alcaraz clash in Miami

MIAMI – Brazilian teenager Joao Fonseca is looking forward to facing world number one Carlos Alcaraz for the first time at the Miami Open, just a week after pushing second-ranked Jannik Sinner to the limit at Indian Wells.

The 19-year-old, who defeated Fabian Marozsan 6-4, 3-6, 6-2 in the first round on Thursday, first gained attention by winning the 2024 Next Gen ATP Finals, a tournament that launched the careers of former champions Alcaraz and Sinner.

Fonseca, who lost 7-6(6), 7-6(4) to Sinner in the fourth round of Indian Wells, said he is excited for the challenge against Alcaraz.

"I'm excited for sure," Fonseca told reporters. "I look forward to playing against the top players. I played against Jannik last tournament, and now I'm playing against Carlos. It's a great experience, and I hope I can get the win."

Known for drawing large, enthusiastic crowds—often likened to soccer matches—Fonseca said the support played a key role in his victory over Marozsan.

"The crowd really helped me stay positive throughout the match," he said. "I'm very happy with this win and hope to continue playing like this during the tournament." -Reporting by Shrivathsa Sridhar in Bengaluru; Editing by Peter Rutherford/Reuters