At just 18 years old, João Fonseca is experiencing a meteoric rise in the world of tennis. This Monday, the young Brazilian faces his toughest test of 2025 in the third round of the Miami Open Masters 1000, one of the most prestigious tournaments on the professional circuit. Standing across the court will be Alex De Minaur, a 26-year-old Australian ranked number 11 in the ATP standings. Known for his relentless intensity and the nickname “Demon,” De Minaur brings a solid track record and the experience of having faced giants like Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray. This will be their first-ever clash, setting the stage for an electrifying showdown on the American hard courts.
Born in Sydney, Australia, De Minaur is the son of a Uruguayan father and a Spanish mother, though he spent much of his life in Alicante, Spain. His tennis journey began early, picking up a racket at age 4. He turned pro at 16 in 2015, launching a career that now boasts nine titles and notable victories. In 2024, he reached his peak at number 6 in the world rankings, thanks to a consistent season featuring quarterfinal runs in three Grand Slams: Roland Garros, Wimbledon, and the US Open. This year, he advanced to the round of 16 at the Australian Open, proving he remains a top contender.
Beyond his on-court prowess, the Australian stands out for personal quirks that make him a unique figure in the sport. Tattooed on his chest is the number 109, a tribute to being the 109th player to represent Australia in the Davis Cup, a storied team competition. Off the court, his five-year relationship with British tennis player Katie Boulter, ranked 35 in the WTA, also draws attention. In 2024, the couple went viral by winning tournaments back-to-back, with De Minaur claiming the ATP 500 in Acapulco and Boulter triumphing in San Diego within 48 hours.
- On-court intensity: De Minaur’s speed and stamina earned him the “Demon” moniker.
- Winning record: He holds nine career titles, including the 2024 Acapulco ATP 500.
- Brazilian connection: While he’s never faced Fonseca, he’s had close matches with other Brazilians like Thiago Monteiro.
Diverse roots and a love for the game
The son of a Uruguayan father and a Spanish mother, Alex De Minaur was born on February 17, 1999, in Sydney. His multicultural background shines through in his life story: though he grew up mostly in Alicante, Spain, he proudly represents Australia on the global stage. His family’s move to Europe shaped his early years, but he never lost touch with his Australian identity. A passionate Real Madrid fan, he’s admitted that soccer holds a special place in his heart, yet tennis became his true calling.
De Minaur first swung a racket at age 4, displaying an energy that amazed his early coaches. His professional debut came in 2015 at 16, when he began competing in smaller tournaments. His rise was swift, and within a few years, he was taking on the sport’s biggest names. A breakthrough victory arrived in 2018 when he defeated Italy’s Marco Cecchinato in Sydney, putting him on the tennis world’s radar. Today, he’s celebrated as one of the most consistent players of his generation.
The “Demon” nickname stems from his relentless style. In matches, De Minaur chases down every ball with a tenacity that exhausts opponents. This trait has fueled wins over Rafael Nadal in Barcelona in 2024 and Andy Murray in several memorable encounters. For João Fonseca, known for his own speed and aggression, this matchup promises a grueling test of endurance and tactics.
A rising career and historic achievements
Alex De Minaur’s professional tennis journey is defined by resilience and standout accomplishments. With nine singles titles, he’s proven his versatility across surfaces. A career highlight came in 2024 when he clinched the ATP 500 in Acapulco, beating Norway’s Casper Ruud in the final. That same year, he reached the quarterfinals of three Grand Slams, cementing his status as a top-tier player. At this year’s Australian Open, he made it to the round of 16, underscoring his ongoing consistency.
One of his most notable wins was against Rafael Nadal in Barcelona, a match played on the Spaniard’s favored clay. The tight contest showcased De Minaur’s ability to compete at the highest level against legends. He’s also bested Andrey Rublev, a steady force in the top ranks, and Andy Murray, a former world number 1, in battles that tested his physical and mental limits.
In team events, the Australian shines brightly. His Davis Cup tenure is a point of pride, symbolized by his chest tattoo. Since debuting for Australia, he’s notched key wins and become a cornerstone of recent campaigns. In 2022, he helped the nation reach the final, though they fell to Canada. These feats prove De Minaur is more than a flashy nickname—he’s a formidable presence in tennis.
- Key titles: Sydney (2019), Atlanta (2019), Zhuhai (2019), Antwerp (2020), Acapulco (2024).
- Best ranking: Number 6 in the world, achieved in July 2024.
- Grand Slam highlights: Quarterfinals at Roland Garros, Wimbledon, and US Open in 2024.
Personal life and romance with Katie Boulter
Off the court, Alex De Minaur keeps a low profile, but his relationship with Katie Boulter often steals the spotlight. The pair has been together since 2020, bonding during the pandemic. Boulter, a top-35 WTA player from Britain, shares his passion for tennis and a mutual support system. In March 2024, they made headlines when De Minaur won in Acapulco and then traveled 3,000 kilometers to cheer Boulter to victory in San Diego less than two days later.
Their engagement, announced in December 2024, was shared on social media with photos from a tropical getaway. Their bond is marked by gestures like Boulter’s presence in the stands during his Australian Open quarterfinal run this year. Despite packed tournament schedules, they carve out time to train together and travel, balancing career and romance. For fans, the couple embodies a new wave of tennis stars blending skill and charisma.
De Minaur’s connection with Boulter also mirrors his discipline. Both adhere to strict diets and intense training regimens, vital for staying at the top. While he’s known for speed, Boulter excels with powerful shots, making them a complementary duo in life and sport. Their story adds a relatable layer to De Minaur’s on-court “Demon” persona.
The showdown with João Fonseca
João Fonseca, Brazil’s 18-year-old sensation, enters this matchup on a high. After dominant wins in the Miami Open’s early rounds, he’s turning heads with his speed and shot power. A recent opponent likened him to Carlos Alcaraz, the current world number 1, noting how fast Fonseca sends the ball across the court. This strength could prove crucial against De Minaur, who also relies on agility as a weapon.
This clash pits two tennis generations against each other. At 26, De Minaur aims to solidify his elite status, while Fonseca looks to climb higher in his budding career. The Brazilian, already a fan favorite for his dazzling plays, faces a seasoned player used to big stages. Set on the Miami Masters’ fast hard courts, the match should suit both players’ aggressive styles, promising fast-paced rallies and a treat for spectators.
Key moments in Fonseca’s journey to the Miami Open:
- 2023: Dominated the junior circuit, winning the US Open boys’ title.
- 2024: Broke into the pros with early ATP wins.
- 2025: Surged in the rankings and powered through Miami’s opening rounds.
What to expect in Miami
The Miami Open Masters 1000, played on hard courts, is a perfect fit for Alex De Minaur and João Fonseca’s styles. The Australian’s strong defense and counterattacking ability could wear down the Brazilian, while Fonseca’s powerful, youthful energy might catch De Minaur off guard if he sustains his aggression. Analysts suggest stamina will be decisive, given both players’ reputations for fighting for every point.
De Minaur comes off a strong season, with standout Grand Slam and Masters results. His experience in marathon matches, like five-setters at the Australian Open, could give him an edge. Fonseca, meanwhile, brings the momentum of a breakout year and the backing of fans eager to see Brazil’s next tennis star shine. Their first head-to-head, set for this Monday, will shape their rankings and confidence moving forward.
De Minaur’s Miami history also tilts in his favor. He’s reached the round of 16 in past editions, showing comfort with the tournament’s conditions. For Fonseca, this is his debut on such a grand stage, but he’s already proven fearless. The match will pit emerging talent against established skill, making it a must-watch event.
Stats and fun facts about De Minaur
Alex De Minaur’s decade-long pro career boasts impressive numbers. With over 200 ATP wins, he excels against players outside the top 10. His court speed stands out: he averages over 8 meters covered per point, ranking him among the sport’s fastest. That agility will be key against Fonseca, who matches him in mobility.
Fun facts about the “Demon”:
- First racket: He started with a wooden racket at age 4, a gift from his dad.
- Personal best: In 2024, he ran over 10 kilometers in a single five-set match.
- Off-court passion: Besides Real Madrid, he’s a cricket enthusiast, a nod to his Australian roots.
This Miami clash with João Fonseca adds another chapter to De Minaur’s story as he chases a tenth career title. For Fonseca, it’s a chance to make waves in a major tournament and build on a historic season. Win or lose, this battle will linger in fans’ minds as a clash of rising star versus proven veteran.

At just 18 years old, João Fonseca is experiencing a meteoric rise in the world of tennis. This Monday, the young Brazilian faces his toughest test of 2025 in the third round of the Miami Open Masters 1000, one of the most prestigious tournaments on the professional circuit. Standing across the court will be Alex De Minaur, a 26-year-old Australian ranked number 11 in the ATP standings. Known for his relentless intensity and the nickname “Demon,” De Minaur brings a solid track record and the experience of having faced giants like Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray. This will be their first-ever clash, setting the stage for an electrifying showdown on the American hard courts.
Born in Sydney, Australia, De Minaur is the son of a Uruguayan father and a Spanish mother, though he spent much of his life in Alicante, Spain. His tennis journey began early, picking up a racket at age 4. He turned pro at 16 in 2015, launching a career that now boasts nine titles and notable victories. In 2024, he reached his peak at number 6 in the world rankings, thanks to a consistent season featuring quarterfinal runs in three Grand Slams: Roland Garros, Wimbledon, and the US Open. This year, he advanced to the round of 16 at the Australian Open, proving he remains a top contender.
Beyond his on-court prowess, the Australian stands out for personal quirks that make him a unique figure in the sport. Tattooed on his chest is the number 109, a tribute to being the 109th player to represent Australia in the Davis Cup, a storied team competition. Off the court, his five-year relationship with British tennis player Katie Boulter, ranked 35 in the WTA, also draws attention. In 2024, the couple went viral by winning tournaments back-to-back, with De Minaur claiming the ATP 500 in Acapulco and Boulter triumphing in San Diego within 48 hours.
- On-court intensity: De Minaur’s speed and stamina earned him the “Demon” moniker.
- Winning record: He holds nine career titles, including the 2024 Acapulco ATP 500.
- Brazilian connection: While he’s never faced Fonseca, he’s had close matches with other Brazilians like Thiago Monteiro.
Diverse roots and a love for the game
The son of a Uruguayan father and a Spanish mother, Alex De Minaur was born on February 17, 1999, in Sydney. His multicultural background shines through in his life story: though he grew up mostly in Alicante, Spain, he proudly represents Australia on the global stage. His family’s move to Europe shaped his early years, but he never lost touch with his Australian identity. A passionate Real Madrid fan, he’s admitted that soccer holds a special place in his heart, yet tennis became his true calling.
De Minaur first swung a racket at age 4, displaying an energy that amazed his early coaches. His professional debut came in 2015 at 16, when he began competing in smaller tournaments. His rise was swift, and within a few years, he was taking on the sport’s biggest names. A breakthrough victory arrived in 2018 when he defeated Italy’s Marco Cecchinato in Sydney, putting him on the tennis world’s radar. Today, he’s celebrated as one of the most consistent players of his generation.
The “Demon” nickname stems from his relentless style. In matches, De Minaur chases down every ball with a tenacity that exhausts opponents. This trait has fueled wins over Rafael Nadal in Barcelona in 2024 and Andy Murray in several memorable encounters. For João Fonseca, known for his own speed and aggression, this matchup promises a grueling test of endurance and tactics.
A rising career and historic achievements
Alex De Minaur’s professional tennis journey is defined by resilience and standout accomplishments. With nine singles titles, he’s proven his versatility across surfaces. A career highlight came in 2024 when he clinched the ATP 500 in Acapulco, beating Norway’s Casper Ruud in the final. That same year, he reached the quarterfinals of three Grand Slams, cementing his status as a top-tier player. At this year’s Australian Open, he made it to the round of 16, underscoring his ongoing consistency.
One of his most notable wins was against Rafael Nadal in Barcelona, a match played on the Spaniard’s favored clay. The tight contest showcased De Minaur’s ability to compete at the highest level against legends. He’s also bested Andrey Rublev, a steady force in the top ranks, and Andy Murray, a former world number 1, in battles that tested his physical and mental limits.
In team events, the Australian shines brightly. His Davis Cup tenure is a point of pride, symbolized by his chest tattoo. Since debuting for Australia, he’s notched key wins and become a cornerstone of recent campaigns. In 2022, he helped the nation reach the final, though they fell to Canada. These feats prove De Minaur is more than a flashy nickname—he’s a formidable presence in tennis.
- Key titles: Sydney (2019), Atlanta (2019), Zhuhai (2019), Antwerp (2020), Acapulco (2024).
- Best ranking: Number 6 in the world, achieved in July 2024.
- Grand Slam highlights: Quarterfinals at Roland Garros, Wimbledon, and US Open in 2024.
Personal life and romance with Katie Boulter
Off the court, Alex De Minaur keeps a low profile, but his relationship with Katie Boulter often steals the spotlight. The pair has been together since 2020, bonding during the pandemic. Boulter, a top-35 WTA player from Britain, shares his passion for tennis and a mutual support system. In March 2024, they made headlines when De Minaur won in Acapulco and then traveled 3,000 kilometers to cheer Boulter to victory in San Diego less than two days later.
Their engagement, announced in December 2024, was shared on social media with photos from a tropical getaway. Their bond is marked by gestures like Boulter’s presence in the stands during his Australian Open quarterfinal run this year. Despite packed tournament schedules, they carve out time to train together and travel, balancing career and romance. For fans, the couple embodies a new wave of tennis stars blending skill and charisma.
De Minaur’s connection with Boulter also mirrors his discipline. Both adhere to strict diets and intense training regimens, vital for staying at the top. While he’s known for speed, Boulter excels with powerful shots, making them a complementary duo in life and sport. Their story adds a relatable layer to De Minaur’s on-court “Demon” persona.
The showdown with João Fonseca
João Fonseca, Brazil’s 18-year-old sensation, enters this matchup on a high. After dominant wins in the Miami Open’s early rounds, he’s turning heads with his speed and shot power. A recent opponent likened him to Carlos Alcaraz, the current world number 1, noting how fast Fonseca sends the ball across the court. This strength could prove crucial against De Minaur, who also relies on agility as a weapon.
This clash pits two tennis generations against each other. At 26, De Minaur aims to solidify his elite status, while Fonseca looks to climb higher in his budding career. The Brazilian, already a fan favorite for his dazzling plays, faces a seasoned player used to big stages. Set on the Miami Masters’ fast hard courts, the match should suit both players’ aggressive styles, promising fast-paced rallies and a treat for spectators.
Key moments in Fonseca’s journey to the Miami Open:
- 2023: Dominated the junior circuit, winning the US Open boys’ title.
- 2024: Broke into the pros with early ATP wins.
- 2025: Surged in the rankings and powered through Miami’s opening rounds.
What to expect in Miami
The Miami Open Masters 1000, played on hard courts, is a perfect fit for Alex De Minaur and João Fonseca’s styles. The Australian’s strong defense and counterattacking ability could wear down the Brazilian, while Fonseca’s powerful, youthful energy might catch De Minaur off guard if he sustains his aggression. Analysts suggest stamina will be decisive, given both players’ reputations for fighting for every point.
De Minaur comes off a strong season, with standout Grand Slam and Masters results. His experience in marathon matches, like five-setters at the Australian Open, could give him an edge. Fonseca, meanwhile, brings the momentum of a breakout year and the backing of fans eager to see Brazil’s next tennis star shine. Their first head-to-head, set for this Monday, will shape their rankings and confidence moving forward.
De Minaur’s Miami history also tilts in his favor. He’s reached the round of 16 in past editions, showing comfort with the tournament’s conditions. For Fonseca, this is his debut on such a grand stage, but he’s already proven fearless. The match will pit emerging talent against established skill, making it a must-watch event.
Stats and fun facts about De Minaur
Alex De Minaur’s decade-long pro career boasts impressive numbers. With over 200 ATP wins, he excels against players outside the top 10. His court speed stands out: he averages over 8 meters covered per point, ranking him among the sport’s fastest. That agility will be key against Fonseca, who matches him in mobility.
Fun facts about the “Demon”:
- First racket: He started with a wooden racket at age 4, a gift from his dad.
- Personal best: In 2024, he ran over 10 kilometers in a single five-set match.
- Off-court passion: Besides Real Madrid, he’s a cricket enthusiast, a nod to his Australian roots.
This Miami clash with João Fonseca adds another chapter to De Minaur’s story as he chases a tenth career title. For Fonseca, it’s a chance to make waves in a major tournament and build on a historic season. Win or lose, this battle will linger in fans’ minds as a clash of rising star versus proven veteran.
