Joao Fonseca Triumphs in Miami Open Thriller Against Learner Tien

MIAMI, March 21, 2025 — Joao Fonseca made an electrifying entrance at the Miami Open, defeating Learner Tien in an intense opening-round match on Thursday, finishing with scores of 6-7(1), 3-6, 6-4.

The 18-year-old Brazilian showcased resilience as he rallied from a set down, supported by an enthusiastic home crowd at Hard Rock Stadium, who cheered him on with Brazilian flags and chants.

“I knew it was going to be a difficult match. I knew Learner was going to fight until the end, he’s a great fighter. He knows how to play, he’s very smart. So I needed to go until the end and I just went for it hard and the Brazilian crowd was with me today,” Fonseca said, adding a playful message on the camera lens: “Am I in Brazil?”

In a dramatic third set, Fonseca called for a medical timeout after feeling dizzy and requesting medication from the doctor. Following a brief interruption, he returned to the court, despite appearing to cramp just two points before closing out the match.

The match lasted two hours and 23 minutes, with Fonseca notably converting 22 of 31 net approaches, as he displayed strategic prowess throughout the game.

Waiting for him next is the 19th seed, who previously won his seventh tour-level title in Marseille last month. Fonseca now leads the Lexus ATP Head2Head series against Tien 3-0, having previously defeated him in two matches at the 2024 season, including a final.

The contest marked the youngest main-draw match at the Miami Open since 2016, when two 18-year-olds faced off. Fonseca delivered an astounding 43 winners, including 27 from his formidable forehand.

“I always try to be aggressive with my forehand. When I was younger, I chose my forehand in crucial moments, and it often went out,” Fonseca reflected. “Now I’m working on being aggressive while maintaining consistency. I’m happy with my hard work.”

Entering the Miami tournament ranked No. 60 in the PIF ATP Rankings after clinching an ATP Challenger Tour title in Phoenix, Fonseca boasts a remarkable 21-4 record this season. His recent form has garnered attention, with fans hopeful he can continue his winning momentum.

In other Miami Open action, fellow #NextGenATP players also advanced, with players like Felix Auger-Aliassime and Lorenzo Musetti claiming victories.