Joao Fonseca, one of the brightest young stars in tennis, has officially withdrawn from the 2025 Next Gen ATP Finals due to injury. The 19-year-old Brazilian, who captured the title in Jeddah last year by defeating Learner Tien, will not be traveling to Saudi Arabia to defend his crown.
Rising career halted by injury
Fonseca has enjoyed a breakthrough season, climbing to No. 24 in the world rankings. His success included winning the Argentina Open in February and adding the Swiss Indoor title last month. Despite this momentum, his injury has forced him to pause his campaign.
Statement from the tournament
Organizers confirmed his withdrawal with an official announcement:
“João Fonseca has withdrawn from the 2025 Next Gen ATP Finals presented by PIF as he continues to recover from an injury sustained at the end of the 2025 ATP Tour season. We wish João the best in his recovery and in his preparations for the 2026 ATP Tour season.” — Next Gen ATP Finals
Alcaraz exhibition in doubt
Fonseca was scheduled to appear at the Miami Invitational on December 8, where he was set to face six-time Grand Slam champion Carlos Alcaraz in a singles exhibition. The event also planned a mixed doubles match featuring Fonseca, Alcaraz, Jessica Pegula, and Amanda Anisimova. At present, it remains unclear whether Fonseca will participate, given the proximity of the exhibition to the Next Gen Finals.
Looking ahead to 2026
While his absence is a disappointment for fans eager to see him defend his title, Fonseca’s focus will now shift to recovery and preparation for the 2026 ATP season. His rapid rise and early achievements have already marked him as one of the sport’s most promising talents, and his return will be closely watched.
Joao Fonseca in 2025
LWWWWWLLWW Ranked world no.24 (career-high), the Brazilian played his last match on the 29th of October when he was defeated by world no.18 Karen Khachanov 6-1 3-6 6-3 in the 2nd round in Paris (draw).
This year Fonseca has managed to achieve a compiled 39-17 match record. Fonseca conquered 4 titles in 2025 in the Canberra Challenger, Buenos Aires, the Phoenix Challenger and Basel.
