Fonseca Upsets Paul, Sets Sinner Showdown at Indian Wells

19-year-old Brazilian reaches ATP Masters 1000 fourth round for the first time

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Joao Fonseca, a 19-year-old Brazilian tennis player, upset 23rd seed Tommy Paul in straight sets to advance to the fourth round of the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells. Fonseca will next face world No. 2 Jannik Sinner, marking his first career match against a Top 5 player.

Why it matters

Fonseca's victory over Paul is a significant milestone, as he becomes the first Brazilian to reach the fourth round of an ATP Masters 1000 event since 2024. His run in Indian Wells also showcases the rising talent of young Brazilian players on the global tennis stage.

The details

Fonseca dominated Paul, winning 6-2, 6-3 to set up a meeting with Sinner. The Brazilian has now defeated seven Top 30 players since September, including two wins en route to his Basel title in October. Fonseca will be facing a Top 2 player for the first time in his career when he takes on Sinner.

  • Fonseca defeated Paul on Sunday, March 9, 2026.
  • Fonseca will face Sinner on Tuesday, March 11, 2026.

The players

Joao Fonseca

A 19-year-old Brazilian tennis player who is making his first fourth-round appearance at an ATP Masters 1000 event.

Jannik Sinner

A 24-year-old Italian tennis player who is currently ranked No. 2 in the world and one of the rising stars on the ATP Tour.

Tommy Paul

A 25-year-old American tennis player who was seeded 23rd at the BNP Paribas Open.

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What they’re saying

“I don't need to say that Jannik is a huge player. He won several titles. Him and Carlos they are winning everything. So just rest tomorrow and then Tuesday back on court, trying to put as much pressure as I can and trying to play like [I did today].”

— Joao Fonseca (atptour.com)

What’s next

The winner of the Fonseca-Sinner match will advance to the quarterfinals of the BNP Paribas Open.

The takeaway

Fonseca's impressive run in Indian Wells showcases the rising talent of young Brazilian players on the global tennis stage, and his upcoming match against world No. 2 Sinner will be a true test of his abilities against the sport's elite.