Joao Fonseca matches unique feat of Rafael Nadal during title-winning campaign in Buenos Aires

Brazil’s young tennis sensation Joao Fonseca has matched the former world number one Rafael Nadal in a unique feat, lifting the Argentina Open. The 18-year-old is already regarded as the one for the future, and he showcased his talent on Sunday as he lifted his first title at the seniors level in Buenos Aires.

Fonseca defeated the home crowd favourite Francisco Cerundolo in the final in straight sets with a score of 6-4, 7-6. While doing so, Fonseca equalled a unique feat set by Spain’s legendary tennis star Nadal 10 years ago.

Fonseca, while on his way to the victory, defeated four Argentinian players, something the 38-year-old, who is regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of men’s tennis, did in 2025. Other than beating Cerundolo, the youngster defeated Tomas Martin Etcheverry in the first round with a score of 6-3, 6-3, Federico Coria in the second round with a score of 2-6, 6-4, 6-2 and Mariano Navone in the quarterfinal with a score of 3-6, 6-4, 7-5.

In the final, Fonseca won 73 percent points on first serve, considerably higher than his opponent who managed to win just 53 percent points on his first serve. Talking after the match, the youngster was clearly ecstatic and thanked his family and friends for their support in his young career. He also thanked the crowd for their support.

"Unbelievable week, even in Argentina there are some Brazilians cheering for me,” he said. “That’s just amazing. Every Brazilian, everyone from their country wants this support from your own country. For me, this [moment] that I’m living is just unbelievable. I want to thank my family, my friends and my sponsors for just helping me achieve my dream, which is to play tennis. Of course I want to be No. 1, of course I want to win Slams, titles, but my dream is just to play tennis, and I’m living it.”