João Fonseca and Marcelo Melo are the doubles champions at the Rio Open; they delivered a special moment for Brazilian tennis.
Fonseca, 19, is one of the most exciting young players on tour. A former junior world No. 1 and US Open boys’ singles champion, he has been transitioning steadily into the professional ranks, with Rio marking another significant milestone in his early career.
Melo, 42, is also a former world No. 1 in doubles and a Roland Garros and Wimbledon champion in doubles. He has spent years competing at the top of the discipline. He has multiple Masters 1000 titles and a long-standing presence as one of Brazil’s most successful doubles players.
There are 23 years between them, but in Rio, it made no difference; they stood on the same side of the net and lifted the trophy together.