Adelaide exit leaves João Fonseca’s Australian Open plans in doubt
Brazilian teenager João Fonseca has cast doubt over his Australian Open preparations after withdrawing from a second consecutive tournament due to ongoing back pain.
The world number 29, who enjoyed a breakthrough 2025 season with title victories in Basel and Buenos Aires, has pulled out of next week’s Adelaide International after also missing the Brisbane International earlier this month.
The 19-year-old admitted the decision was a difficult one but insisted his focus remains firmly on being fit for the season’s first Grand Slam.
“It was difficult to make this decision. After a few days of practice I was feeling better,” Fonseca said.
“But I can’t say I’m at 100 percent yet. I’m doing everything I can to recover, because the Australian Open is the main goal.”
Fonseca revealed that medical scans had eased some concerns, even if caution remains the priority.
“We did an MRI and the problem is nothing very serious,” he added. “But we want to be completely safe. We know it could have been worse.”
The Australian Open gets underway at Melbourne Park on Sunday, January 18.
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