Miami Open organizers grant center court billing to rising stars Alex Eala and Joao Fonseca

Alex Eala and Joao Fonseca take center court in Miami as rain delays reshuffle the 2026 schedule. See the updated order of play and top matchups.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 19, 2026, 11:16 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Tennis365

Young Superstars Take Over Stadium Court

The Miami Open has officially ushered in a new era of talent by awarding prime center court billing to Alex Eala and Joao Fonseca for Thursday’s blockbuster session. This strategic move by Tournament Director James Blake fulfills a promise to treat these emerging global icons with the prestige usually reserved for established champions. Blake noted that both athletes possess massive international followings, particularly within the Filipino and Brazilian communities in Florida, which effectively creates a home match atmosphere for both players. Eala, the 31st seed, is scheduled to open the day’s play against Laura Siegemund, followed immediately by Fonseca’s highly anticipated first round clash with Fabian Marozsan.

Weather Disruptions Reshape the Tournament Schedule

Inclement weather has caused significant logistical challenges during the opening days in South Florida, with persistent rain forcing the cancellation of nearly all first round matches on Wednesday. This meteorological havoc has created a congested Thursday lineup as organizers rush to complete the initial stages of both the ATP and WTA draws. Legendary champion Venus Williams was among those most affected by the delays, as her match against Francesca Jones was postponed by nearly 24 hours. To accommodate the backlog, officials have moved several high profile veteran matches away from the main stadium to ensure the tournament remains on schedule for the weekend rounds.

A Tactical Shift for Tennis Veterans

In a notable departure from traditional scheduling, legendary figures like Venus Williams and Grigor Dimitrov will feature on the Grandstand court rather than the main stadium. Williams’ encounter with Jones is now part of a packed secondary court itinerary that also includes Dimitrov’s match against Raphael Collignon. While these household names are shifting locations, the main court remains dedicated to the "next generation" and current top seeds. This redistribution of star power across the grounds aims to provide fans with high intensity matchups at every corner of the Hard Rock Stadium complex while navigating the remaining threat of rain.