Fonseca wants to match Nadal's incredible performance in 2005: "I'm going to try to do the same thing".

Le 21/12/2024 à 12h24 par Adrien Guyot

João Fonseca is off to a perfect start at the Next Gen ATP Finals.

With three wins from as many group matches, the Brazilian will face Luca Van Assche this Saturday in the semi-finals and will be aiming to reach the final in his first appearance, at just 18 years of age.

Before taking to the court against Jakub Mensik for a match of anthology on Friday evening (3-4, 4-3, 4-3, 3-4, 4-3), Fonseca had the privilege of meeting Rafael Nadal, present in Jeddah for this 2024 edition of the Next Gen Masters.

For the ATP website, the quarter-finalist in Rio at the start of the season talked about the chance to chat with the Spanish legend.

He hopes to achieve the same feat as Nadal at the start of his career in 2005, namely 11 titles in one season.

"Rafa is a legend. I'm a fan of Roger Federer, but I also love Rafa.

My coach is a big fan of his. The unlocking screen on my phone is a photo of him with a little phrase accompanying it.

It's been a pleasure to meet him. To win eleven titles in one season is just crazy. I'm going to try to do the same thing as him," he says.

Rafael Nadal

174e, 330 points

Joao Fonseca

98e, 600 points

Nadal reflects on his rivalry with Djokovic and Federer: "All three of us pushed our limits".

Jules Hypolite 04/02/2025 à 18h50

Rafael Nadal was honored last night at a gala event organized by Spanish media outlet Mundo Deportivo, and answered several questions from journalists. Asked about the toughest players he has faced, ...

Nadal: "I'm trying to adapt to what is a new aspect of my life".

Clément Gehl 04/02/2025 à 08h26

Rafael Nadal has now been retired for three months. He attended "La Gran Gala de Mundo Deportivo", the awards presented by the Spanish media. He was honored for his career. The journalists asked him ...

Medvedev: "The new generation is very strong".

Adrien Guyot 03/02/2025 à 12h14

Daniil Medvedev is hoping to regain his confidence. After a blank 2024 season in terms of trophies won, the Russian player experienced disillusionment at the season's first Grand Slam. Facing Learner...

Humbert is confident: "To beat me indoors in France, you have to be solid".

Jules Hypolite 01/02/2025 à 22h39

Having beaten Joao Fonseca on Day 1 of the Davis Cup against Brazil, Ugo Humbert once again proved that his game is perfectly suited to the indoor hard court. The fast-paced surface of the Palais des...