Alcaraz Defeats Fonseca to Advance at Miami Open

World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz of Spain overcomes challenge from Brazil's Joao Fonseca in straight sets.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 5:39am

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In a highly-anticipated second-round match at the Miami Open, world No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz of Spain defeated 19-year-old Joao Fonseca of Brazil 6-4, 6-4. Fonseca, who pushed eventual champion Jannik Sinner to three sets at Indian Wells last week, gave Alcaraz a tough challenge, but the Spaniard was able to save all three break points he faced and capitalize on 2 of 5 break point opportunities to win in one hour and 35 minutes.

Why it matters

Alcaraz, the reigning world No. 1, is looking to defend his Miami Open title and continue his dominance on the ATP Tour. Fonseca, a rising star from Brazil, showed he can compete with the best players in the world, which could signal a bright future for the 19-year-old.

The details

Alcaraz was able to produce 27 winners compared to just 13 for Fonseca. The Spaniard was also strong on serve, saving all three break points he faced. Fonseca, who pushed Jannik Sinner to three sets at Indian Wells last week, gave Alcaraz a tough challenge, but the world No. 1 was able to prevail in straight sets.

  • The match took place on Friday, March 21, 2026 in the second round of the Miami Open.

The players

Carlos Alcaraz

The world No. 1 tennis player from Spain, who is the defending champion at the Miami Open.

Joao Fonseca

A 19-year-old rising star from Brazil who pushed eventual champion Jannik Sinner to three sets at the Indian Wells tournament last week.

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What they’re saying

“I think I was really good in crucial moments. I was really good since the beginning until the last ball. I know how good Joao is, and that's why I was really focused, every point, every shot.”

— Carlos Alcaraz

“I'm just happy to stay calm, to stay positive in those moments. Most of the games, I just served pretty well, which was a really great weapon today for me.”

— Carlos Alcaraz

“I think he has everything, great shots, a lot of things to improve, but for sure he's going to do it. Back-to-back tournaments playing the No. 1 and No. 2 in the world I think is going to be really helpful for him.”

— Carlos Alcaraz

What’s next

Alcaraz will take on 32nd-seeded Sebastian Korda in the third round of the Miami Open.

The takeaway

This match showcases the continued dominance of world No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz, as well as the promising future of 19-year-old Joao Fonseca, who is proving he can compete with the best players in the world.