Taking on his first US Open draw, Joao Fonseca is ready to run the long yards! He’s made impressive strides this season and now faces his first match at Arthur Ashe Stadium, ready to take on the New York slam head-on. But the pressure was intense, and his first-round clash against Miomir Kecmanovic was no walk in the park.

The Brazilian teenager blasted out of the gates, stunning Kecmanovic with a two-sets-to-love lead. At 3-3 in the first, trainers were called—not during a changeover, which raised eyebrows. Sources said Fonseca was saving his full timeout for the next break. But just as he pushed to 15-30 on Kecmanovic’s serve, things took a turn. Out of nowhere, world No. 45 dashed to the court side, clearly in distress and looking sick.

Fonseca tried to shake it off and even talked quickly with his team before going on. Only three points later, he dashed off again, muttering he needed to “vomit.” Cameras cut away as he leaned over a bin. The 19-year-old later took medication while the physio stepped in during set three. The umpire gave a three-minute medical timeout, yet Joao Fonseca barely waited. In seconds, he was back upright, determined to fight on.

Miraculously, he pulled off the win! Joao Fonseca took the match 7-6(3), 7-6(5), 6-3! He proved himself today. But will his health hold as he moves on? Only time will tell! Catch all the latest US Open news on our Live Blog now!

Following his triumphant win, Joao Fonseca couldn’t hide his excitement about playing at such a high level. “It’s my first year playing all these big tournaments. My first time playing U.S. Open main draw. I’m just loving the career on tour,” he shared in his post-match interview. “I’m very happy playing each tournament. Discovering new places, new countries. I’m enjoying a lot. I know it’s a lot of expectation and pressure at 19 years old, but I love doing what I love.”

And why not? Fonseca is truly on a historic rise. After winning the 2024 ATP Next Gen Finals and stepping into his first tour, he’s capturing his first title at Buenos Aires and the attention from all corners of the tennis world, including Novak Djokovic!

Serbian legend makes Joao Fonseca part of a surprising future plan

Ahead of the US Open’s opening day, the 19-year-old threw a playful question at Novak Djokovic about his retirement plans. The 24-time Major winner didn’t miss a beat. With a smile, Nole joked about coaching Fonseca one day:  “My plan after I retire from tennis is to coach João Fonseca. I will be very expensive for him, so be ready,” he declared, warning the young star to be ready for a big coaching bill. Mixing humor with genuine respect the classic Djokovic style!

This lighthearted moment wasn’t just a joke. It showed Nole’s deep appreciation for tennis’ rising stars. Known for mentoring young talents, Novak has supported players like Hamad Medjedovic and Jakub Mensik. Now, Joao Fonseca joins that circle. While the Brazillian doesn’t need financial help, getting encouragement from the greatest player of all time is huge. It’s a nod to his game, dedication, and potential.

Rightfully so! Fonseca has been making waves all year. After finishing the 2024 season in the top 150, he’s quickly rising in the ranks. His first US Open match win in 2025 means a lot. It marks him as one of the few to have won a match at every Grand Slam. At just 19, Joao Fonseca is the seventh youngest to achieve this feat, even ahead of legends like Nadal. He’s trailing close behind giants like Alcaraz, Borg, Becker, and Ivanisevic.

Now, all eyes are on whether he can keep the momentum going. Up next, he faces the 21st seed, Tomas Machac. Can Joao keep shining under the New York lights? Share your thoughts in the comments below!