Joao Fonseca is deservedly one of tennis’ most exciting young stars, and is being backed to establish himself amongst the elite in the coming years.
Already, the 19-year-old has climbed as high as 24th in the world rankings, following a hugely successful first full year on tour, which included two ATP titles.
However, he will have far grander aspirations for his future, particularly when it comes to usurping the current duopoly established by Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner.
Joao Fonseca has the talent and the huge backing, and has recently spoken about how it feels to be so vociferously supported wherever he goes.
Joao Fonseca speaks about his Brazilian fans
As the outstanding player from a nation as huge as Brazil, fans are already keen to hang their hat on Fonseca.
After all, they believe he could one day establish himself as their greatest-ever player, particularly with what he has already achieved at such a young age.
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Asked about being followed by hordes of fans at every tournament and the pressure that comes with it, Fonseca was nothing but appreciative when speaking on the Inside-In Podcast.
He claimed: “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.
“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.
“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.
“And Brazil is a big country, so everywhere I go there, some Brazilians are watching me, and that’s also super nice.”
Fonseca added: “This also motivates me, the kids saying that I inspire them. This motivates me to keep going, to keep working hard every day. So it’s an honour to represent my country, too. It’s a pleasure to represent our flag. So it’s just super nice to have their support.”
Rafael Nadal has predicted if Fonseca can challenge Alcaraz and Sinner recently, whilst also assessing the potential within this youngster.
Brazil and French tennis fans competed during Joao Fonseca’s Roland Garros match
Earlier this year, Fonseca’s legion of fans were put to the ultimate test, forced to go to war against the supporters at the French Open.
Home fans at this particular Grand Slam are known for their vocal and at times overzealous support, so when Pierre-Hugues Herbert faced Fonseca in the second round of the French Open, it made for a unique atmosphere.
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Thousands of fans poured into Court 14 and took turns supporting their players. The emotional travelling Brazilians refused to be drowned out by those following the hometown hero.
In the end, Fonseca battled through a hostile climate to win in straight sets.
