The second-round action at the 2026 Miami Open witnessed the much-anticipated clash between Carlos Alcaraz and João Fonseca. While the Spaniard got it done in straight sets, he was appreciative of the Brazilian’s talent and how consecutive matches against the top-two ranked players might be helpful for him in the future.
Carlos Alcaraz Reflects on Playing Rafael Nadal After Beating João Fonseca in Miami
After the match, Alcaraz was asked whether playing top-ranked opponents would be beneficial for Fonseca in the long run. The Spaniard answered in the affirmative, remembering his first match against Rafael Nadal at the Madrid Open, when the current world No. 1 was a teenager. Even though it was a dominant win for the great player, the match was a big learning block for Alcaraz.
“Well I do remember when I played Rafa Nadal for the first time in Madrid. I remember how good that match was for me. Even though I was destroyed,” said Alcaraz.
This was Fonseca’s second tough assignment in as many tournaments, as the Brazilian faced Jannik Sinner at Indian Wells. He acquitted himself admirably as there were two close sets against world No. 2, with the youngster having set points in the first-set tiebreak.
Even in the second set, he was able to take the match into a tiebreak despite going down an early break. After Alcaraz beat him 6-4, 6-4 in Miami, the Spaniard said these matches would help Fonseca grow, as his team could give him meaningful feedback on his performances against top-ranked players.
Alcaraz did not miss out on admiring Fonseca’s game, stating that the Brazilian had all the necessary ingredients to be successful on the tour. The Spaniard was bullish about Fonseca making improvements to his game, having played against the top two players in the world in consecutive tournaments.
MORE: Carlos Alcaraz Warns João Fonseca Over ‘Expectations’ Ahead of Miami Clash
“He has everything. Great shots. A lot of things to improve. But I’m pretty sure he’s gonna do it. Back to back tournaments playing against #1 and #2 in the world is gonna be really helpful for him,” said Alcaraz.
The match went on expected lines, as Alcaraz got early breaks and served them out on both occasions. Fonseca had break points to come back in the match, but was unable to capitalize on them. The win takes Alcaraz’s record to 17-1 this season, with the top seed set to take on the 32nd-seeded Sebastian Korda in the third round.
