Joao Fonseca has enjoyed a solid first half of the 2026 ATP season so far.
The Brazilian, tipped by many to be the next big star in tennis alongside Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, recorded his career-best Grand Slam result at Roland Garros.
Fonseca reached the quarterfinals in Paris and defeated Novak Djokovic en route in a statement performance.
Which Grand Slam title would you like to see Joao Fonseca win?
He also had his deepest run at an ATP Masters 1000 event, making the quarterfinals in Monte-Carlo earlier in the clay swing.
Currently ranked 27th in the world, Fonseca is on track to be seeded for the US Open and will have the chance to improve that seeding by going far at the Canadian Open and the Cincinnati Open.
Joao Fonseca discusses his goals for the rest of the season
Talking about his goals for the remainder of 2026 in an interview with Tennis Majors, the 19-year-old said: “I still feel I’m new on Tour, this is really my first year playing the full schedule.
“I think people know a bit more about me now, and that brings expectations. I know that’s normal, I know it’s coming.
“I know they also put expectations on me because they support me and believe in me, and I take that in a positive way.
“I try to stay calm, feet on the ground, stay humble, and just focus on my routine to improve as a person and as a player.
Where do you think Joao Fonseca will be ranked at the end of the 2026 season?
“This year has been a lot about experience – defending points for the first time, dealing with nervousness and expectations. My goal is just to maintain a good rhythm and play with good consistency.
“That’s what I expect from myself for the rest of the year. Personal goals are something I usually discuss with my team, but we never really think in terms of ranking.
“I mean, technically I need to reach the semifinals here or there to defend my points – but no, I just play match by match and focus on what I can control.”
Joao Fonseca looks up to Roger Federer and Gustavo Kuerten
Asked what kind of player he wants to be remembered as when he retires, Fonseca replied: “I want to be someone people admire.
“Not only for his tennis, but also for his charisma, the way he talks, the way he treats people. I get that a lot from my idols – Guga and Roger.
“They’re great not just because of their tennis; they’re idols because of their charisma, how they treat people. I want to be known for that too.”
Fonseca recently opted not to play at the Washington Open and will begin his North American hard-court swing in Canada.
Receive exclusive tennis news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
