On December 8, Joao Fonseca will step onto the court against world number one Carlos Alcaraz in a highly anticipated exhibition match in Miami. The encounter brings together two of the youngest players inside the top 25, offering fans a glimpse of both present dominance and future promise.
Inspiration from Wimbledon
Fonseca’s admiration for Alcaraz began long before this meeting. The two shared practice time at Wimbledon, where the Brazilian teenager observed the Spaniard’s meticulous preparation. The intensity, professionalism, and attention to detail left a lasting impression on Fonseca, shaping his understanding of the standards required at the sport’s highest level.
Alcaraz’s praise and Fonseca’s growth
Alcaraz has recently spoken positively about Fonseca’s potential, reinforcing the Brazilian’s belief in his trajectory. For Fonseca, this exhibition is more than just an off-season showcase. It is a chance to apply lessons learned from one of the game’s biggest influences and to prove he belongs on the biggest stages. “Carlos is so important to our sport, and just being there, experiencing that Wimbledon moment with him meant a lot to me. Watching his routine and how he prepares for matches, that was really valuable for my growth. His recent compliments toward me is something really important, helping me trust the process I’m in and believe in myself,” Fonseca said.
Building momentum
Fonseca ended the 2024 season by winning the Next Gen ATP Finals, achieving the feat at a younger age than Alcaraz did. His success provided a major boost heading into 2025, where he has already delivered impressive performances. The Miami exhibition represents another step in his journey toward joining the sport’s elite, potentially as early as 2026.
For Alcaraz, the match is part of a short US swing, while for Fonseca it is a symbolic opportunity to measure himself against the player who has set the benchmark for modern greatness. The exhibition promises to be a thrilling spectacle, highlighting both the brilliance of the world number one and the ambition of a rising star eager to make his mark.
Carlos Alcaraz in 2025
Ranked no.1, Carlos played his last match on the 16th of November when he surrendered to world no.2 Jannik Sinner 7-6(4) 7-5 in the final in the Nitto ATP Finals (draw).
This year Alcaraz achieved a compiled 71-9 win-loss record. Carlos has won 8 titles in 2025 in Rotterdam, Monte-Carlo, Rome, French Open, London, Cincinnati, U.S. Open and Tokyo. Carlos reached the final in Barcelona, Wimbledon and the Nitto ATP Finals.
Joao Fonseca in 2025
Ranked world no.24 (career-high), Fonseca 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).
During this season Joao owns an overall 39-17 win-loss record. Fonseca clinched 4 titles in 2025 in the Canberra Challenger, Buenos Aires, the Phoenix Challenger and Basel.
Carlos Alcaraz and Joao Fonseca have never fought against each other.