Brazilian teenager Joao Fonseca captured the biggest title of his young career on Sunday, powering past Spain’s Alejandro Davidovich Fokina 6-3, 6-4 to win the Swiss Indoors Championships in Basel.
Fonseca also became the first Brazilian to win an ATP event above the 250 level since legend Gustavo Kuerten lifted the Cincinnati Masters trophy back in 2001.
The 19-year-old’s victory marks his second tour-level title, following his breakthrough win in Buenos Aires earlier this year, and his first at the ATP 500 level.
Fonseca Overwhelmed After Historic Win
“It is crazy,” Fonseca said after sealing the milestone victory in just one hour and 25 minutes. “I want to thank my family and my coaches who helped me achieve this amazing effort.
“My parents just
came from Brazil. They were heading to Paris, but they changed their flights and came here one hour before the match with my uncles. It’s just amazing to have them here for the biggest title of my career.”
The result will catapult Fonseca into the Top 30 of the ATP Rankings for the first time when the standings update on Monday.
Dominant from the Start
Fonseca took control early, breaking Davidovich Fokina to sprint ahead 3-0 in the opening set. Despite a brief fightback from the Spaniard, the Brazilian’s explosive baseline power and confident shotmaking proved too much to handle.
He fired 15 winners in the first set and continued his aggressive form in the second, breaking early again to go 2-0 up. Though he missed a championship point at 5-3, Fonseca held firm, sealing victory in style.
“We keep going,” he said with a smile. “It’s my first ATP 500, but hopefully not the last.”
Federer’s Shadow and Brazilian Pride
Playing in Basel carried special meaning for Fonseca, who grew up watching Roger Federer dominate the event.
“I watched Roger playing this tournament since I was young, winning it like 10 times,” Fonseca said. “It’s a pleasure playing on this court for the first time, and for sure it won’t be the last.”
He also expressed pride in representing his homeland.
“It’s crazy how everywhere I go, there are Brazilians cheering and calling my name. It’s a pleasure representing this amazing country.”
(with Reuters inputs)
