Joao Fonseca is motivated after the praise of Novak Djokovic in Indian Wells | ATP Tour

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Fonseca is motivated after Djokovic praise in Indian Wells

The Brazilian reflects on growing attention

March 07, 2025

Joao Fonseca added his first victory in the BNP Paribas Open this Thursday, but the most prominent moment of the day could occur outside the track.

After winning Jacob Fearnley in three sleeves, the Brazilian met the five -time Novak Djokovic champion. And the words of praise towards their growth soon arrived.

“I was leaving the track I trained after my game and, at that time, [Novak] He entered her. He asked me if I had won and then congratulated me. It was very exciting to talk to me, “said a smiling Fonseca at the press conference after the meeting.

All eyes pointed to Fonseca during Day 2 in California after his recent emergence. Since 2024, the Brazilian has won the Next Gen ATP Finals present by Pif, surpassed No. 9 Cups Andrey Rublev at the Australian Open, debuted in the Top 100 of the PIF ATP Rankings and raised its first ATP Tour Cup in Buenos Aires.

In his debut in Indian Wells, Joao was squeezed to defeat Fearnley at Stadium 1 before a stand full of Brazilians. After his triumph, Fonseca valued the love and growing attention he receives around the world.

“I’m still young and I’m still getting used to this,” said Fonseca. “Seeing that people from all over the world, not only Brazilians, support me, shouts my name, asks me autographs, … two years ago it was I who was looking for autographs. It’s nice to see all those children and fans keeping following me.”

Fonseca participates in the second 1000 Masters of his career, having won a match in Madrid last year. The Brazilian competed mainly at the ATP Challenger Tour in 2024 but, after climbing No. 80 of the PIF ATP Rankings, has strengthened its position as a full -time player in the ATP Tour in 2025.

The ascent has been vertiginous for Fonseca, concentrated in his tennis while enjoying the new experiences.

“It is the first time I come. It will be my second years as a professional and I am reaching bigger tournaments. I keep watching these events and look at the best players,” said the Brazilian. “Today I met Novak, I have seen Carlos. Having these guys next to is fantastic. Everything is very nice.”

If Fonseca maintains his current progression, it might not take too long to run into the Serbian and Spanish on the track. For now, the Brazilian places his thoughts in the second round duel that will fight this Saturday against the British Jack Draper.