Brazil will compete in the Qualifiers round of Davis Cup in 2026. The South American squad bested Greece in Athens, with Joao Fonseca claiming two singles wins to send Brazil over the top.
The young gun defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-4, 3-6, 7-5 in the fourth rubber to bring the decisive point and start a massive celebration with his teammates. Fonsecaand Tsitsipas fought in front of a legend.
Novak Djokovic, who now lives in Athens, came to watch the two stars alongside his son, Stefan. Speaking about Novak, Joao admitted it was an honor to compete in front of him, hopingthe 24-time Major winner enjoyed the battle.
Tsitsipas took two points more than Fonseca, but not the pivotal ones. He led 5-3 in the final set before the Brazilian stepped in and secured back-to-back breaks to emerge at the top.
The home player experienced a break at 15 in the first game of the duel. A teenager served well and landed a service winner in game ten for 6-4 in 34 minutes.
Stefanos provided a break in the sixth game of the second set and opened a 4-2 advantage. He held at 5-3 and introduced a decider, eager to keep his country alive.
Tsitsipas moved in front with a break in game five and delivered two holds at love for a 5-3 advantage. He served for the win in game ten and lost serve after spraying a forehand error.
Fonseca held at 5-5 after deuces and made another push on the return in game 12. He drew Stefanos's mistake to provide another break and move Brazil over the top.
"I told myself I had to take it point by point and remain aggressive. My captain asked me to stay positive because Stefanos would feel the pressure. I knew he would get stressed during important moments because he was not winning many matches.
That was essential. Playing for my country is very special; this win means a lot. It was an honor to compete in front of Novak Djokovic. I heard he would be in the stands, and I hope he enjoyed the show," Joao Fonseca said.
