How did Fonseca reach the last 16 in Montreal?

The 18-year-old Brazilian talent João Fonseca has been on a tear at the ATP Masters 1000 in Montreal, knocking out two top-tier opponents back to back. First he eliminated Stefano Tsitsipas, then defeated Norwegian Casper Ruud in a hard-fought match that went to a first-set tie-break before Fonseca closed it out in two sets.

What did Fonseca say about facing Shelton?

Speaking to ESPN after the Ruud victory, Fonseca was candid and confident: "Only good players make it to where we want to go, so we have to face these guys. Over the last year and a half I've learned a lot, I've evolved and found my rhythm — I feel ready to face the best."

How did he overcome a shaky start against Ruud?

Fonseca admitted his serve was misfiring early in the match against the experienced Norwegian. "They say winning 6-1, 6-2 is great, but sometimes winning the hard way is good too. I started serving badly, but I learned to grind through it, getting faster and faster as things fell into place," he said.

What is at stake on Sunday?

Fonseca faces world No. 10 Ben Shelton on Sunday, with the match time still to be confirmed. The winner advances to the quarter-finals to play whoever comes through the match between Botic van de Zandschulp (Netherlands) and Jakub Mensik (Czech Republic).

Key Facts:
  • João Fonseca defeated Tsitsipas and Ruud at the Montreal Masters 1000.
  • Next opponent: Ben Shelton, currently ranked No. 10 in the world.
  • Match scheduled for Sunday; time TBC.
  • Quarter-final opponent will be either Van de Zandschulp or Mensik.
  • Fonseca beat Ruud after winning a first-set tie-break.