Tennis continues to surge in nations once considered outsiders, driven by a new generation proving talent knows no borders. From populous countries like Brazil, rising stars are igniting fan bases at home and online with their flair and fight. Yet support can cut both ways. As Beatriz Haddad Maia exited early in Melbourne, Yulia Putintseva seized the moment, turning the crowd’s energy into pointed jabs that stole the spotlight.

Down 1-3 in the final set, Yulia Putintseva won the last five games. She defeated Brazilian Beatriz Haddad Maia 3-6, 7-5, 6-3 in the Australian Open first round. The match was played today and lasted nearly three hours.

Putintseva appeared irritated by loud Brazilian fans throughout the match. She was also distracted by a technical issue that caused screeching feedback from the chair umpire’s microphone. Both moments added visible tension on the court.

After sealing the win, the 31-year-old made her feelings clear. She offered a brief handshake, performed a small victory dance, and delivered a deep bow to the crowd. The gesture followed a grueling two-hour, 53-minute battle.

As part of the AO’s ongoing revamp, the Courtside Bar at Court 6 now connects to Court 5 and Court 7 via a balcony. This layout increases the potential for crowd noise to impact matches. Rowdy spectators can now easily catch players’ attention, sometimes causing frustration on the court.

Yulia Putintseva was clearly irritated by the crowd during her recent matches. However, it is not the first time she has made headlines for on-court confrontations.

Her previous flare-up occurred at the Bad Homburg Open last year against Maria Sakkari. Sakkari, a former world No. 3, won her first-round match 7-5, 7-6(6). 

After the match, a brief meeting at the net escalated into a heated argument. Putintseva’s poor attempt at a handshake triggered Sakkari. Sakkari told her to act like a human being. Putintseva snapped back: “I was a human being,” before saying, “go f*** yourself.”

Sakkari responded, “What did you say?” The argument continued with insults exchanged between the two. Sakkari approached Putintseva’s bench multiple times. The microphone even caught Sakkari saying, “Nobody likes you. When you shake hands, you look people in the eye.” The chair umpire chose to stay seated rather than intervene.

“I don’t think she’s going to invite me for dinner for the rest of our lives,” Sakkari joked during her on-court interview.

“But I don’t care to be honest. I have very good friends,” she added, showing no hard feelings.

At the 2024 US Open, Putintseva also drew attention for ignoring a ball girl. She stood still and let balls go past her before later apologizing. 

And despite clashes with fans and opponents, the Brazilian crowd’s enthusiasm remains strong. And if you doubt it, just ask the current ATP world No. 32.

Joao Fonseca praises the passionate support of Brazilian fans

Joao Fonseca is one of tennis’ most exciting young stars. At just 19, he is widely expected to establish himself among the elite in the coming years.

The Brazilian has already climbed as high as 24th in the world rankings. This rise follows a highly successful first full year on tour, which included two ATP titles. His talent is clear, and he also enjoys strong support from fans back home.

Fonseca recently spoke about the experience of being backed wherever he goes. He shared his thoughts on the Inside-In Podcast, highlighting the joy it brings him.

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Asked about the pressure of being followed by hordes of fans at every tournament, Fonseca expressed gratitude. He said, “Yeah, it’s just amazing to see the kids, not only from Brazil, but also from other countries, saying that I inspire them, that I am their idol.”

He reflected on his journey, adding, “It’s just crazy because five years ago, I was the one asking for autographs and yeah, asking for pictures. So it’s just super cool, the support in Brazil.”

Fonseca also described how the encouragement reaches him in daily life. “And yeah, when I go to restaurants or walk the street, some people say, well, good job, keep going. It’s just super nice to have their support.”

He emphasized the nationwide attention he receives. “And Brazil is a big country, so everywhere I go there, some Brazilians are watching me, and that’s also super nice.”

Even as Brazilian fans may be disappointed by Beatriz Haddad Maia’s early loss, Fonseca offers them someone to cheer for. He will play his first-round match at the 1573 Arena on January 23. 

With such passionate support, fans hope it will help him dig deep into the Slam this year.