David Nalbandian has singled out the youngster as one with the tools, mentality and timing to achieve something special.
Brazilian brilliance š§š·
The moment Joao Fonseca claimed the biggest title of his career as he defeated Alejandro Davidovich Fokina 6-3 6-4 š#SwissIndoorsBasel pic.twitter.com/am0FLhreCy
ā Tennis TV (@TennisTV) October 26, 2025
Fonseca’s results have made him a future star and South America’s greatest prodigy since Juan Martin de Potro. The young man claimed two ATP titles in 2025 and passed more than 100 positions in the ATP rankings.
He is the youngest player in the top 25 at the end of the year, with the desire to achieve much more in 2026, his first entirely at the top level. Joao has shown a level of maturity and competitiveness that suggests his ceiling is far from being reached.
For Nalbandian, once the most notable South American player himself, that combination of early success and raw potential is the clearest indication of a future contender.
Fonseca would love to crack the top 15 in 2026, but many project his position much higher. David admitted that Joao’s forehand is better than his and praised his qualities and upcoming improvements.
His solid foundation is based on that weapon. On the other hand, the other elements of his game are also well balanced, although they need work to challenge top rivals, which is normal when someone is 19.
In addition to individual promises, Joao’s rise has a broader meaning. South America has long waited for the next generation capable of consistently challenging at the highest level.
Fonseca’s success provides inspiration that extends far beyond his results. It signals that the region can once again produce players ready to chase notable trophies.
With youth at his side and a game built for the modern Tour, the Brazilian appears positioned to follow a promising path and help redefine expectations for South American tennis in the future.
What Joao did in 2025 was nothing short of spectacular. He opened the season with the Challenger title before qualifying for the Australian Open and stunning Andrey Rublev in the first round.
The young man claimed his first ATP title in February in Buenos Aires. He scored at least one win at all four Majors, gained experience and ended the season with another ATP trophy in Basel.
“Joao is an excellent player. He is still very young and I think he has already achieved a lot. He has a lot of potential and can undoubtedly achieve great things because of his youth and talent.
It’s fantastic, not only for Brazilian tennis, but also for South American tennis. I hope many other young players can emulate him and be inspired by him. Today they hit the ball a little harder, they hit it harder overall.
I think Joao has a better forehand than me. His backhand, maybe not so much. And he serves very well. So I think he has a lot of qualities to continue to improve,” said David Nalbandian.
#Joao #Fonseca #turns #heads #David #Nalbandian #tips #greatness