Novak Djokovic, a name synonymous with tennis greatness, has always been a keen observer of emerging talent in the sport. Recently, the 24-time Grand Slam champion expressed his admiration for Joao Fonseca, an 18-year-old Brazilian tennis prodigy. Djokovic’s words of encouragement have added to the growing buzz around Fonseca, who has been making waves with his remarkable performances on the court.

Fonseca’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. The young player clinched the title at the Next Gen Finals and followed it up with his first ATP career title in Buenos Aires. His debut at Indian Wells was equally impressive, as he showcased his resilience by overcoming a break deficit in the deciding set to secure a victory against Jacob Fearnley. These achievements have not only highlighted his skill but also his ability to handle pressure with composure.

Djokovic, known for his meticulous approach to the game, praised Fonseca’s professionalism and dedication. He likened the Brazilian’s rise to that of Carlos Alcaraz, another young star who has captured the tennis world’s attention. Djokovic emphasized the significance of Fonseca’s potential, particularly for Brazil, a country with a rich sports culture but limited representation in tennis since the era of Gustavo “Guga” Kuerten.

Djokovic commented: “He seems to be handling it all very well.

I mean, I don’t know him personally so well, but from what I have seen on the court, not only the way he plays but the way he behaves, and people around him, seems like there is a very good level of balance and professionalism and devotion, like what we have seen for the last couple years with Alcaraz.

He has the potential to be really a superstar of this game. No doubt about it. Coming from Brazil also, one of the biggest countries in the world, where they love tennis, love sports, very passionate people.

It would be amazing for also our sport to have a Brazilian superstar, first really big superstar since Gustavo ‘Guga’ Kuerten, that was an idol of so many kids, incredible guy and big champion. Yeah, I wish him all the best.”

The Serbian legend’s endorsement of Fonseca is a testament to the latter’s growing stature in the tennis community. Djokovic’s acknowledgment of Fonseca’s talent and character underscores the young player’s promise to become a major force in the sport. As Fonseca continues to develop his game, the tennis world eagerly anticipates the impact he will make on the global stage.

Novak Djokovic in 2025

Ranked world no.7, Novak played his last match on the 8^th of March when he lost to world no.85 Botic Van De Zandschulp 6-2 3-6 6-1 in the 2^nd round in Indian Wells (draw).

At the moment, during this season Novak owns a composed 7-4 record. Novak Djokovic’s best achievement of the present season was getting to the semifinal at the Australian Open.

He is also scheduled to play in Miami (Miami Open) on the 19th of March and () on the 29th of December.

Joao Fonseca in 2025

Ranked no.80, Fonseca played his last match on the 8^th of March when he lost to world no.14 Jack Draper 6-4 6-0 in the 2^nd round in Indian Wells (draw).

This season the Brazilian has managed to achieve a composed 15-4 record. The Brazilian conquered 2 titles in 2025 in the Canberra Challenger and Buenos Aires.

Novak Djokovic and Joao Fonseca have never played each other.