Joao Fonseca to Headline Historic UTS Rio Debut

Tennis is bracing for a carnival atmosphere as the Ultimate Tennis Showdown (UTS) makes its highly anticipated South American debut in Brazil next month. Hosting the event is Rio de Janeiro’s iconic, 11,000-seater Maracanãzinho stadium from July 16–18.

The headlining act is none other than Brazilian teenage sensation João Fonseca. Nicknamed “The Rocket” (UTS nicknames are customary), Fonseca is set to make his UTS debut in front of his passionate home crowd.

“I can’t wait to play in front of my home crowd,” Fonseca said. “The atmosphere looked fantastic [in France] and I’m sure Brazilians will love this UTS format.”

Founded by Patrick Mouratoglou, UTS features an innovative, fast-paced format with eight-minute quarters, single serves, and bonus cards.

Fonseca joins a stellar eight-man field competing for a $1,237,000 USD prize purse, with $400,000 going to the champion. Confirmed superstars include Australian Nick Kyrgios, recent Queen’s Club champion Francisco Cerundolo, Frenchman Ugo Humbert, and former Rio ATP champion Cameron Norrie. Three additional players will be announced shortly to complete the lineup for what will be the 18th edition of the UTS – which started in Nice in 2020.