Alcaraz and Fonseca: A Miami Rematch Looms as NextGen Stars Rise
The Miami Open presented by Itau is poised for a potential blockbuster second-round clash between World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz and rising Brazilian star Joao Fonseca. The pair previously met in an exhibition match in Miami in December, and now could face off again in a Lexus ATP Head2Head Series encounter.
Fonseca’s Ascent and Challenge to Alcaraz
Alcaraz’s path in Miami begins with either Fonseca or Fabian Marozsan. Fonseca, currently ranked 24th, has demonstrated significant progress, recently pushing Jannik Sinner to two tie-breaks in the fourth round of the BNP Paribas Open. Their previous meeting in Miami was an exhibition, but Fonseca will need to overcome Marozsan – who defeated him in Rome last year – to secure a rematch.
Last year in Miami, Fonseca reached the third round of an ATP Masters 1000 event for the first time, showcasing his potential on hard courts with wins over Learner Tien and Ugo Humbert before falling to Alex de Minaur.
The Broader Competitive Landscape
The draw also positions Jannik Sinner, aiming for the ‘Sunshine Double’, in a separate quarter, facing Damir Dzumhur or a qualifier. Ben Shelton is also in Sinner’s quarter. Taylor Fritz, the top-ranked American, could potentially meet Alcaraz in the last eight, opening his campaign against Denis Shapovalov or Botic van de Zandschulp.
Musetti’s Path and Potential Semi-Final Showdown
Lorenzo Musetti, potentially Alcaraz’s semi-final opponent, will look to rebound from his second-round exit in Indian Wells. He will face a qualifier or lucky loser in his opening match in Miami.
FAQ
Q: When did Alcaraz and Fonseca last play?
A: They played an exhibition match in Miami in December 2025.
Q: What is Fonseca’s current ranking?
A: He is currently ranked 24th.
Q: Who could Alcaraz face in the quarter-finals?
A: Taylor Fritz could potentially face Alcaraz in the quarter-finals.
Q: What is the ‘Sunshine Double’?
A: The ‘Sunshine Double’ refers to winning both the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells and the Miami Open in the same year.
Did you know? Alcaraz recently wrapped up the 2025 season with the ATP’s year-end No. 1 ranking, achieving 71 match wins and eight trophies.
Explore more about the Miami Open and follow the latest updates on the ATP Tour website.
