Joao Fonseca’s defense of his Argentina Open title came to a sudden end at the hands of Alejandro Tabilo in the round of 16.
The Brazilian won his first ATP title at last year’s event to become the second-youngest South American in the Open Era to lift a trophy.
Fonseca has hopes of becoming world number one, but the teenager is yet to start the season in inspiring fashion.
Without a single win in 2026 so far, Fonseca has declared what he’s desperate to improve after the Argentina Open.
Joao Fonseca cites his serve and physicality as potential improvements
Despite his impressive debut year on the ATP Tour, Fonseca has remained grounded following a rise to as high as world number 24.
Speaking after his defeat to Tabilo, the Brazilian said: “It’s a very tough loss for me. I tried everything but today I lacked confidence.
Joao Fonseca will be the man to unsettle Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner’s duopoly over men’s tennis – Prove us wrong!
“I keep working hard and keeping a positive mindset. It’s only my second year playing ATP. A lot of players talk about it. It’s something that’s going to happen in 2028. Obviously I really like playing here and playing in Rio, in South America. I don’t have much of an opinion. I’m still a rookie.”
Fonseca then cited two big holes in his game he is looking to solve in order to further climb the rankings in 2026.
“Working a lot technically on the serve, return, which is very important in this return. The serve is essential for any surface. Physically, we have to improve. The good thing is that we have to improve many things.
“I’d say it’s a very good tournament, I really like the tour. For a player, coming here is like then going to Rio. They’re going to eat really well.
“I really like the organisation. From the security to the tournament director. I really like being here close to Brazil.”
Fonseca will now head to the Rio Open, where he will be the third seed behind Francisco Cerúndolo and Luciano Darderi.
Joao Fonseca’s barren four-month streak continues
It’s been a long while since Fonseca has tasted a victory, with his last win coming all the way back in October.
The star is currently on a three match losing streak, having lost to Karen Khachanov, Eliot Spizzirri, and now Tabilo.
What is your bold prediction for the 2026 tennis season?
The Brazilian’s last victory came in the first round of the Paris Masters, where he beat Denis Shapovalov in three sets.
The teenager will be hoping to improve his form on home soil at the Rio Open, where he has an interesting history.
The star received a wild card to the 2024 event and he announced himself to the tennis world by beating Arthur Fils and Cristian Garin to reach the quarter-finals.
His previous appearance, however, saw him crash out in the first round to Alexandre Muller in straight sets.
