João Fonseca and Marcelo Melo come from behind against Europeans to win the doubles title at the Rio Open
João Fonseca and Marcelo Melo overcame a setback to defeat the European duo of Constantin Frantzen and Robin Haase, winning the Rio Open doubles title.
In an exhilarating match at the Guga Kuerten Court in Rio de Janeiro, Brazilian tennis players João Fonseca and Marcelo Melo demonstrated resilience and skill as they came from behind to claim the doubles title at the Rio Open, the most significant ATP tournament in South America. The final score of the match was 4/6, 6/3, and 10/8, showcasing a tense battle over a duration of 1 hour and 33 minutes. The decisive point was marked by an ace from Fonseca during a thrilling 'super tie-break' that sent the enthusiastic crowd into a frenzy.
With their victory, the Brazilian duo secured a cash prize of $151,700, while the runners-up, the European pair of Frantzen and Haase, received $80,900. This win is particularly significant for Marcelo Melo, who has cemented his legacy as one of Brazil's most accomplished doubles players by earning his second title at the Rio Open, having previously won in 2025 with partner Rafael Matos. The notable career achievements for Melo include being a former world number one and now adding another title to his extensive collection.
This victory not only adds to Melo's impressive list of honors but also symbolizes the growing strength and talent in Brazilian tennis. Fonseca, alongside Melo, has shown promise and determination that could inspire future generations of players. As the Rio Open continues to be a pivotal tournament for South American tennis, this win highlights the competitive spirit present in the sport and the potential for Brazilian athletes to shine on an international stage.