"Now there are a lot of people talking about me" - Rising ATP star Joao Fonseca reflects on newly found fame

Brazilian tennis prodigy Joao Fonseca announced his arrival on the ATP tour this season, and the youngster has had to make adjustments as he deals with being thrust into the spotlight.

The 18-year old defeated World No.9 Andrey Rublev in the opening round of the 2025 Australian Open, before winning his maiden ATP level title at Argentina Open a few weeks later. Fonseca has since seen his ranking rise to as high as World No.59, and is currently through to the second round of the Madrid Open, where he will face 11th-seeded American Tommy Paul.

The young Brazilian took a break from competitive tennis for nearly a month after reaching the third round at the Miami Open in March. During this time period, he returned to Rio where he practiced and tried to recharge after playing several events so early in the season.

We felt that it was time to take a pause and reflect about everything that happened," said Fonseca. "A lot has changed. I needed time to rest my mind. It was an important break. Now there are a lot of people talking about me...in the media, the Internet. A lot changed since the Next Gen and the Australian Open. I became more well known around the world.
"I have to stay grounded and keep working hard to achieve more in tennis. I have to keep focused on my things and not on the expectations from other people.
"Thankfully I have a great foundation, with relatives, friends and coaches who have been helping me keep my feet on the ground and stay humble to keep on working."