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Joao Fonseca Falls in Buenos Aires Title Defense, Faces Ranking Hit

The 19-year-old turns to next week’s Rio Open after a 250-point loss in Buenos Aires, citing serve, return, fitness as priorities.

Overview

  • Defending champion Fonseca lost his opening match to Alejandro Tabilo 6-3, 3-6, 7-5 after a first-round bye at the Argentina Open.
  • Post-match, he said he lacked conviction and confidence, noting his legs felt heavy and his body didn’t support the shots he wanted.
  • He remains winless at Tour level in 2026 following a back issue that prompted Brisbane and Adelaide withdrawals and a first-round Australian Open loss to Eliot Spizzirri.
  • The defeat costs him all 250 points from last year’s title, with a provisional drop from No.33 to No.37 in the ATP live rankings.
  • He is set to compete at the Rio Open next week as the third seed, framing the tournament as a chance to reset on home soil.