CAMPINAS/STARNBERG, March 20, 2026
The 16th edition of the Copa Internacional de Tenis de Campinas, set to take place from April 5 to 12 at the Sociedade Hipica de Campinas, highlights an important in South American tennis: the rise of new contenders beyond Argentina’s long-standing dominance.
The entry list for the ATP Challenger 75 event offers a clear snapshot of this shift. Leading the field is Paraguay’s Adolfo Daniel Vallejo, already ranked inside the world’s top 100 and enjoying an excellent season, with two Challenger titles and one runner-up finish to his name.
Close behind is Chile’s Tomas Barrios Vera, the defending champion in Campinas and a consistent presence at the top level of the Challenger circuit. Another standout name is Bolivia’s Juan Carlos Prado Angelo, a former junior world No. 1 – like Vallejo – who is now beginning to make his mark in the professional rankings.
“This edition perfectly reflects the current state of South American tennis,” said tournament director Danilo Marcelino. “We are seeing players from different countries gaining ground, winning titles, and establishing themselves on the tour.”
A changing landscape in South America
Historically, the South American circuit has been dominated by Argentine players, who remain a major force on the Challenger Tour and continue to have a strong presence in Campinas.
However, the 2026 entry list points to a more balanced scenario, with players from Paraguay, Chile, and Bolivia stepping into the spotlight, alongside a solid group of Brazilian competitors.
Among the confirmed home players are Thiago Monteiro, the 2023 champion, as well as Thiago Seyboth Wild, Gustavo Heide, Matheus Pucinelli, Joao Lucas Reis, and Pedro Boscardin Dias, all of whom have been climbing the rankings steadily since last season.
“Argentine players remain very strong, but there is now a greater balance,” Marcelino added. “Other countries are developing competitive players, which raises the overall level of the circuit.”




