New Delhi: It was a dream come true for young qualifier Joao Fonseca at the Australian Open 2025 as he knocked out one of most sought-after players Andrey Rublev on his Grand Slam debut. Ninth seeded Russian Rublev, who holds a terrific record at almost all the Grand Slam events and especially at the Australian Open, suffered a shocking 6-7, 3-6, 6-7 in the opening round of the event.
The tennis sensation from Brazil showcased resilience, temperament and class at equal level to register the first round victory in the men’s singles clash. He also etched his name in the history books as he became only the second player in the Open Era to defeat a top-10 player in their maiden appearance at the Grand Slam. The first player to register this record was Mario Ancic, who defeated Swiss ace Roger Federer at the Wimbledon 2002.
The name’s Fonseca. Joao Fonseca.#AO2025 pic.twitter.com/j2EnuEQUas
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 14, 2025
2 – Joao Fonseca has become only the second teenager since 1973 to defeat an ATP top 10 opponent in their maiden Grand Slam main draw match, after Mario Ancic (Roger Federer, Wimbledon 2002). Leap.#AO2025 | @AustralianOpen @atptour @ATPMediaInfo pic.twitter.com/ddxMRXXNSY
— OptaAce (@OptaAce) January 14, 2025
Fonseca seals match with forehand
The Brazilian teenager looked high on confidence, sealing the exciting clash with a superb forehand, marking his 51st winner of the night. Rublev looked good in the opening and the deciding set as the Brazilian had to work to put the the respective sets in his pocket. The second set in between was completely dominated Fonseca as he did not offer many opportunities to the Russian ace but with the deciding set proving to be a thriller, the 18-year-old enthralled the audience announcing his arrival at the biggest stage.
Earlier, Australian prodigy Alex de Minaur secured his spot in the second round of the Grand Slam event with a formidable 6-1, 7-5, 6-4 victory against Botic van de Zandschulp. He registered a superb win after recovering from a temporary dip in the form.
Australian Open 2025: 18-year-old Joao Fonseca registered an emphatic victory over ninth seed Andrey Rublev in the opening round on Tuesday. Tennis Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
