Brazilian talent João Fonseca has clinched the Next Gen Finals title — further cementing his case as one of the most promising young prospects on the ATP Tour.
Fonseca, 18, defeated America's Learner Tien 2-4 4-3(8) 4-0 4-2 to cap off a terrific week in Saudi Arabia, winning all five games in the tournament.
Entering the event as the lowest seed, the world No.145 played lights-out tennis en route to the title, a trophy that has recently been claimed by the likes of Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz.
"If you told João at the start of the year that he did all the things he did this year, he would think it is amazing," Fonseca said.
"It is amazing how I have improved physically and mentally. I have been very strong mentally, winning matches against top-50, top-20 players. I am proud of myself, but of course, I want more. My dream is to become No.1.
"Now after winning Next Gen, I want to enjoy it this week and relax and celebrate with my family. I want to enjoy the moment and I am very pleased and thankful for this year."
Having played 11 Challenger events in 2024, the Brazilian gem is using these big-stage moments such as the Next Gen Finals to assist his development.
Fonseca believes he is tending in the right direction in a bid to consistently compete toe-to-toe with the top-ranked players.
"I talk with my coach that I like to play big matches in difficult circumstances," Fonseca said. "I like playing the big guys. I like [it] when I have a difficult match in a big stadium. I love the pressure. I belong on the stage of tennis where you have to be brave, where you have to go for the shot. I think I have improved a lot.
"It is a good pressure. By winning Next Gen, it shows I am on the right path. I hope I can do the same or even better than what they have done and are doing and are going to do. I look forward to playing with them and I hope I can compete in big matches at Grand Slams. It is where I want to go."
Fonseca will vie for main draw entry at the 2025 Australian Open in the qualifying stage.
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