Juan Martin del Potro has high praise for rising Brazilian star Joao Fonseca - "He is spectacular"

Brazilian wonderkid Joao Fonseca has been the talk of the tennis community over the last few weeks, and Argentine great Juan Martin del Potro believes the youngster has a bright future ahead of him.

The 18-year old announced his arrival following his victory at the Next Gen ATP Finals in December last year, where he battled his way to the title. Fonseca would shock the world at this year's Australian Open, defeating ninth seed Andrey Rublev in the opening round before losing a five set battle against Italian Lorenzo Sonego in the second round.

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Emotional support will play a role in his development, says del Potro

Following the Australian Open, Fonseca would win the biggest title of his career at the Argentina Open, defeating hometown hero Francisco Cerundolo in the final. Subsequently, Fonseca would compete in front of his home fans at the Rio Open, but would run out of steam and lose in the opening round.

In an interview at the Rio Open, del Potro was asked to give his opinion on Fonseca's sudden rise. The 2009 US Open champion officially announced his retirement in 2024, playing his last match against former World No.1 Novak Djokovic in an exhibition match.

"He is spectacular. Big game, a lot of potential. The speed, his evolution. The way he is getting better," said del Potro when asked about Fonseca. "He needs an emotional support. In Brazil, like in Argentina, people first say you are the best and quickly you become the worst. It’s tough.”

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