Flavio Cobolli stepped onto the court at the Laver Cup 2025 in Berlin with confidence and determination, facing Brazilian rising star Joao Fonseca. Representing Team Europe, the Italian carried the weight of expectation and the added motivation of having Roger Federer courtside. “I cannot lose with Roger cheering for me,” Cobolli said before the match, capturing the spirit of the occasion.
Federer’s presence courtside
Federer, co-founder of the Laver Cup and a constant source of inspiration for the younger generation, was visibly engaged throughout the contest. His applause and encouragement gave Cobolli extra energy in key moments. “When you see Roger standing up for you, it pushes you to fight even harder,” Cobolli admitted. The Swiss legend’s presence created an electric atmosphere inside the Uber Arena.
Fonseca’s composure proves decisive
Despite Cobolli’s determination, Fonseca displayed maturity beyond his years. With powerful groundstrokes and calm execution under pressure, the Brazilian teenager controlled the rallies and capitalized on crucial points. He broke Cobolli’s serve at the end of each set, sealing a 6-4, 6-3 victory for Team World. “Joao played with incredible confidence. He deserved the win today,” Cobolli acknowledged afterward.
A learning experience for Cobolli
For Cobolli, the defeat was bittersweet. While the loss stung, the opportunity to compete in such a setting and to have Federer’s support was unforgettable. “This is a match I’ll always remember. Even though I lost, playing here with Roger behind me is something I’ll carry forever,” he reflected. The Italian remains one of the promising names in European tennis, and the Laver Cup offered him a stage to grow.
Looking ahead in the competition
Fonseca’s win added momentum to Team World, while Cobolli’s effort highlighted the depth of talent in Team Europe. Both players are expected to feature prominently in future editions of the event. For Cobolli, the experience reinforced his belief in his potential. “I’ll come back stronger. Matches like this are part of the journey,”
he concluded.Joao Fonseca in 2025
Now ranked no.42 (career-high), the Brazilian played his last match on the 19th of September when he defeated world no.25 Flavio Cobolli 6-4 6-3 in the round robin in the Laver Cup (draw).
At the moment, during this season the Brazilian achieved an overall 34-15 match record. The Brazilian clinched 3 titles in 2025 in the Canberra Challenger, Buenos Aires and the Phoenix Challenger.
ATP the Laver Cup - Joao Fonseca's projected path
Flavio Cobolli in 2025
At the moment ranked no.25, the Italian played his last match on the 19th of September when he was defeated by world no.42 Joao Fonseca 6-4 6-3 in the round robin in the Laver Cup (draw).
At the moment, during this season Flavio has managed to achieve a 29-23 record. Cobolli conquered 2 titles in 2025 in Bucharest and Hamburg.
He is also scheduled to play in Beijing (China Open) on the 25th of September and Shanghai (Shanghai Rolex Masters) on the 1st of October.
ATP the Laver Cup - Flavio Cobolli's projected path
Joao Fonseca and Flavio Cobolli faced off only on 2 occasions. Their current record is 1-1.