Joao Fonseca Tennis Career: A New Brazilian Tennis Star at the French Open 2025

Published: 10 minutes ago
Author: Jonathan Jurejko, BBC Sport tennis news reporter at Roland Garros

Joao Fonseca’s Tennis Career at the French Open 2025

Dates: 25 May – 8 June
Venue: Roland Garros
Coverage: Live radio broadcasts on 5 Live Sport and BBC Sounds, along with live text commentaries on the BBC Sport website and app

Joao Fonseca’s tennis career is taking a significant turn as he steps onto the court at the French Open 2025. Whenever the 18-year-old Brazilian faces Jack Draper, a British contender, fans eagerly line up to witness the match. Most importantly, Fonseca made his Grand Slam main-draw debut this year, marking a milestone in his tennis journey. Their match, set to happen on Court Simonne Mathieu, is expected to draw a large crowd, highlighting Fonseca’s growing reputation as one of the promising Brazilian tennis stars of 2025.

For those unfamiliar with Fonseca, he is the world number 65 and is quickly becoming a force within the tennis world. “I think everyone can see his potential in the way he plays the game,” said Draper. His game is not just powerful but also dynamic and explosive, attracting significant attention.

Joao Fonseca’s Admirers: Including Djokovic

Joao Fonseca’s tennis career has caught the eye of many, including Novak Djokovic. Initially, Fonseca gained recognition by winning the ATP Next Gen title, a notable achievement for players under 21. His breakthrough came when he defeated eighth seed Andrey Rublev at the Australian Open. During his Grand Slam debut in Melbourne, 24-time major champion Djokovic expressed his admiration, noting, “He’s got the goods, definitely.” Furthermore, Fonseca’s success continued with an ATP 250 title in Buenos Aires.

However, Fonseca’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. A modest run of four wins in nine ATP Tour-level matches, including a 6-4, 6-0 loss to Draper at Indian Wells, has tempered expectations. Yet, his ferocious forehand remains his primary weapon, often leaving opponents in awe. Although his aggressive play style occasionally highlights his inexperience, Fonseca is learning to balance power with patience. “At 13, I wasn’t patient,” Fonseca shared with BBC Sport. “But as I grew older, I understood when to take the shots.”

Brazilian Tennis Stars 2025: Fonseca Leads the Charge

Excitement surrounds Fonseca as Brazil’s great hope for ending a Grand Slam drought. The last Brazilian Grand Slam champions were Maria Bueno and Gustavo Kuerten, with Kuerten winning at the French Open in 2001. Fonseca is now seen as the torchbearer for Brazilian tennis. Football icons like Ronaldo and Neymar have sent him congratulatory messages. Moreover, Brazilian talk shows are eager to feature him, although his team has declined such invitations.

A lively atmosphere follows Fonseca wherever he goes, propelled by thousands of Brazilian fans. “Crowds constantly cheered and followed him,” said Rio Open tournament director Lui Carvalho. “The demand for tickets from officials and celebrities shows he’s a game-changer for Brazilian tennis.” For many young athletes, this spotlight could be overwhelming. But Fonseca embraces it, stating, “I love representing Brazil and carrying the flag.”

How the Pandemic Changed Tennis Training for Fonseca

For Joao Fonseca, changes in training routines during the pandemic were pivotal. Unlike some of Brazil’s sports icons, he didn’t come from humble beginnings. Instead, he grew up in a wealthy family and started playing tennis at the exclusive Rio de Janeiro Country Club. “For me, tennis started as a hobby at 10 or 11,” Fonseca explained. “Things got serious during the pandemic when I changed my coach and school.”

According to Tennis.com, the pandemic significantly impacted tennis training, a point Fonseca echoes as he mentions practicing twice daily during that time. As global sponsors like On sportswear, part-owned by Roger Federer, offered lucrative contracts, Fonseca’s parents opted to guide him with the help of manager Gustavo Abreu. “I have a solid foundation with my family and team,” Fonseca said. “They help me stay grounded and focused on my routines.”

As Fonseca continues to shine, the hopes for another Brazilian Grand Slam champion rise. He is not just a player but a beacon of promise, inspiring a new generation of Brazilian tennis stars. The journey of Joao Fonseca’s tennis career is just beginning, and the world will be watching closely at the French Open 2025. 🌟