Joao Fonseca and Jakub Mensik played out an exciting battle in the latest night session at Roland Garros, which the Czech ace won in straight sets.
Mensik battled past Fonseca under the lights in the French capital, winning their quarterfinal meeting 6-4, 6-3, 7-6(7-3).
He now meets ATP number three Alexander Zverev in the semifinals of Roland Garros, with Fonseca left pondering what could have been in Paris, where a first-time Grand Slam champion will be crowned.
The Brazilian teenager is, however, feeling upbeat despite his loss to Mensik, having now summarized his tournament on social media.
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Joao Fonseca and Jakub Mensik exchange messages after Roland Garros battle
Sharing images of his time at Roland Garros, Fonseca posted on his Instagram: “Yesterday it wasn’t meant to be, all credit goes to [Jakub Mensik] but I lived a dream at Roland Garros.
“It was a super positive tournament, which gives me even more confidence and conviction in my tennis.
“Thank you everyone for the support. Time to recharge for the grass season.”
And his opponent was quick to respond in kind, with Mensik commenting: “Many more big battles to come my friend!”
It’s a lovely touch from both players, who clearly respect each other and are excited for their bright futures in men’s tennis.
And it certainly didn’t end there, with a very similar situation playing out on Mensik’s Instagram.
He wrote: “Grand Slam semifinal… what a feeling. So grateful for all the support and the incredible energy out here.
“Congratulations [Joao Fonseca] on your amazing tournament! We’re not done yet. See you Friday [Roland Garros].”
And wishing his rival well, Fonseca commented: “Good luck, bro. Go for it.”
Joao Fonseca and Jakub Mensik tipped to win multiple Grand Slams
Such bright futures have been discussed on social media following their match, which has caught the eye of a former coach of Serena Williams.
Rick Macci, who worked with the 23-time Grand Slam champion, posted on X in his usual unique style: “Fonseca was a few milliseconds slow against Mensik.
“All the battles before this Paris street fight I could see flipped the movement script ever so slightly.
“Mensik as I said last year barring injury is a top 3 player and for sure will bag a few Slams.
“The Brazilian Blaster [will] also grab a few majors because he pulls the trigger to go bigger on the biggest stage and that spells champion in my page.”
Which Grand Slam title would you like to see Joao Fonseca win?
Currently, both youngsters are without a Grand Slam title, but their Roland Garros quarterfinal represented their best-ever finish at a major.
Mensik has, of course, gone one step further, with the 20-year-old now eyeing a huge upset against Zverev to make the final.
The Czech youngster is currently 27th in the ATP rankings, while 19-year-old Fonseca is just behind him in 30th.
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