"I am very happy to have won my first ATP match on grass," says Fonseca

Joao Fonseca won his first ATP match on grass this Monday against Zizou Bergs in Eastbourne.

He shared his initial thoughts in an interview with Tennis TV: "I am very happy to have won my first ATP match on grass.

Moreover, I achieved it in such a pleasant place as Eastbourne, a legendary tournament.

I faced a great opponent, and I think the score speaks for itself.

The first-set tiebreak was very tight, but I was mentally strong and, fortunately, I managed to win it. I am very proud of my performance and satisfied with my game.

I may have had some lucky moments—I had to hit a few balls blindly because of the sun—but it felt amazing to break and lead 2-0 in the second set; after that, things became easier for me.

Little by little, I overcame some challenges and grew more confident in my tennis.

By the third set, I think we were both a bit nervous, so I tried to hold my serve until I got the break. Here on grass, it’s crucial to stay focused on every point."

Fonseca will face the No. 1 seed, Taylor Fritz, in the next round.