João Fonseca – Foto: Juarez Santos / Shutterstock.com
Brazilian tennis player João Fonseca secured a spot in the ATP 500 Basel semifinal in Switzerland on Friday after Canadian Denis Shapovalov withdrew in the third set, with the score at 4/1 for Fonseca, following sets of 3/6 and 6/3. With this result, the 19-year-old guaranteed his entry into the top 40 of the world rankings, reaching the 39th position with 1,315 points. The match, part of the Basel quarterfinals, marked Fonseca’s first encounter with Shapovalov on the professional circuit. He now prepares to face Spaniard Jaume Munar in the semifinal, scheduled for Saturday at 10 a.m. (Brasília time).
Fonseca showed consistency throughout the week, defeating high-caliber opponents. His victories include a standout win against the tournament’s defending champion, Frenchman Giovanni Perricard, in the first round. The Brazilian also benefited from Czech Jakub Mensik’s withdrawal in the round of 16. The Basel campaign marks a milestone in the Rio native’s career, as he competes in his first ATP 500 semifinal.
Match performance
In the first set, Fonseca started by breaking Shapovalov’s serve, but the Canadian quickly responded, taking control and closing the set 6/3. The set was marked by struggles with Fonseca’s serve, which cost him key points.
In the second set, Fonseca bounced back. After saving a 0/40 in the first game, he secured a crucial break in the fourth game, leading 4/1. Despite Shapovalov’s reaction with a break of his own, Fonseca sealed the set 6/3 with a crosscourt passing shot.
Path to the semifinal
Fonseca’s journey in Basel included significant victories. He defeated champion Giovanni Perricard in the opening round, showcasing his ability against top players. Mensik’s withdrawal in the round of 16 ensured Fonseca’s quarterfinal spot without physical strain.
Preparation for the next match
Fonseca faces Jaume Munar, an experienced player on hard courts. The Brazilian noted the Spaniard’s quality, despite his lower ranking. The match requires caution, as Munar adapts well to the tournament’s conditions.
Historic ranking achievement
With the points earned, Fonseca reaches the 39th position in the world rankings, surpassing his previous best.
The Basel campaign could boost him further if he advances to the final. At 19, Fonseca is seen as a rising star in global tennis, with potential for further ranking climbs in 2026.
History against Shapovalov
The match against Shapovalov was their first encounter. The Canadian, a former top 10, won titles in Los Cabos and Dallas in 2025. Shapovalov’s withdrawal, possibly due to injury, does not diminish Fonseca’s merit, as he was dominating the third set.
Tournament significance
The ATP 500 Basel is one of the circuit’s most prestigious events, attracting top tennis names. Fonseca’s campaign strengthens Brazil’s presence on the global stage, especially after challenges faced by other Brazilian players in 2025.
He becomes the first Brazilian to reach the tournament’s semifinal since Gustavo Kuerten in 2002. At just 19, Fonseca combines youth and maturity, drawing attention from experts and fans.
