"I want to play Djokovic" - Brazilian wonderkid Joao Fonseca ready to challenge the Serbian superstar at Roland Garros

After making his breakthrough at the start of the 2025 ATP season, rising tennis star Joao Fonseca has stated he would like to face tennis great Novak Djokovic before the former 24-time Grand Slam champion retires.

Fonseca announced his arrival on tour after winning the 2024 Next Gen ATP Finals last December, before shocking the entire tennis community with an opening round victory over World No.9 Andrey Rublev. The 18-year old would go on to win his maiden ATP title at the Argentina Open two weeks later, and has since risen to a career-high ranking of World No.59.

In an interview with the official Roland Garros website, Fonseca spoke on his joy at competing at the Parisian Grand Slam, an avenue where he has competed as a junior. However, now ranked World No.65, the Brazilian could see himself facing a top-ranked star in the opening rounds.

"When we start these biggest tournaments, the Grand Slams, the 'qualies', I always tell my coach: 'If I go to the main draw, I want to play Djokovic,' because it's probably one of the last times. I hope I can play him," declared Fonseca. "I'd love to face Djokovic first, second round. I'd try to play my best tennis, the result wouldn't matter, I'd just enjoy it.
"I like to play the top seeds, I like the challenge. I play with no pressure, so I think I can play well there. I like to play with the crowd also, so it's an experience I want to have. Some players will want to play 'easier' first, but I want to play the iconic ones."