The future is now! Brazilian rising star, Joao Fonseca is all set to face America’s Learner Tien in the final of the 2024 Next Gen ATP Finals. Both players entered this match after an impressive performance in the SF. On one side, we heard Fonseca say, “On hard courts, [I’ve never had such a good week]. I’m playing a very high level. I’m just very proud of myself …” after his win against Luca Van Assche in the previous match. Then on the other side, Tien admitted he “hated” having had to face one of his best friends, Alex Michelsen in a do-or-die match. However, Tien is thrilled to make it this far in Jeddah! Now, it’ll be interesting to see who ends this ultimate battle in flying colors.

Joao Fonseca vs Learner Tien: Preview

Joao Fonseca is the second youngest man to make it to the Next Gen ATP Finals after the current world number one, Jannik Sinner (2019)! If we take a look at Fonseca’s season, he started his campaign this year by reaching the SF of the Challenger Buenos Aires, AR. After that, his most remarkable performance came at the Challenger Asuncion, PY. He reached the finals there but was defeated by his compatriot Gustavo Heide. Fonseca is yet to lose a match in this tournament. He defeated France’s Luca Van Assche in the SF by 4-2,4-2,4-1.

Learner Tien on the other hand, started his season reaching the QF of the Oracle Challenger Series- Indian Wells. Tien has had an outstanding season this year, mostly on the Challenger Tour, though. The 19-year-old American has won quite a few tournaments this season, but now it’ll interesting to see if he can win this big one and put a stellar end to an outstanding year. Tien defeated Alex Michelsen by 2-4,4-2,1-4,4-0,4-1 in the SF. What will be the scoreline in the final?

Fonseca vs Tien: Head-to-Head

It’s right-handed Joao Fonseca vs the left-handed Learner Tien! Fasten your seatbelts for an exciting battle in Jeddah. Have these two played against each other, though? Well, yes, they have met each other thrice in their careers so far and interestingly their third meeting came at the 2024 Next Gen ATP Finals itself! Currently, Joao Fonseca has a 2-1 lead over Learner Tien.

• 2023 French Open Juniors QF: Tien 6-3,2-6,6-1.
• 2023 US Open Juniors Final: Fonseca 4-6,6-4,6-3.
• 2024 Next Gen ATP Finals Round Robin: Fonseca 4-0,4-0,1-4,4-2.

Prediction: Fonseca to win in five sets

The undefeated champion of this year’s Next Gen ATP Finals will get $526,480! Can Joao Fonseca create a record on Super Sunday by winning the ultimate battle against the American? Well, looking at his form in this tournament, we’re keeping him slightly ahead in this contest. However, having said that there is no doubt that Learner Tien will be up for a fight in this thrilling contest. Now, if take a look at their record this season, Joao Fonseca (145) has a win-loss record of 34-22, while Learner Tien (122) has a record of 63-13.

Talking about their playing styles, Learner Tien loves playing an aggressive brand of tennis. His dynamic approach, combined with quick footwork enables him to respond effectively in various playing conditions. Tien’s all-court style of play and dangerous shot variety can throw up some real challenges for the 18-year-old Brazilian. His incredible backhand shots are known for their power and precision.

Joao Fonseca on the other hand also has an aggressive style of play. He has a good forehand which can be very penetrating at times and can also hit it with heavy spin. Apart from that, Fonseca can also generate a decent amount of power and spin with his backhand. The one who takes the first step forward in this match will get the upper hand in this contest. We feel Joao Fonseca’s red-hot form in Jeddah will provide him an extra boost in this match. So, Fonseca, all the way!