The rest of the field on the ATP Tour have a lot of catching up to do should they wish to close the gap on Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner in 2026.
Alcaraz and Sinner dominated men’s tennis last season, having split all four major titles between them for the second year in a row.
There are a number of candidates poised to join the Spaniard and the Italian in a new-look ‘big three’, including Jack Draper, Ben Shelton and Felix Auger-Aliassime.
Who will join Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner in a new ‘big three’?
One young player, however, has been pitted by tennis legend Rod Laver to do ‘a lot of damage’ in 2026.
Rod Laver thinks Joao Fonseca is a ‘fearless’ player
As per the Laver Cup website, when asked who he was excited to watch this year, the 11-time Grand Slam winner responded: “So many players.
“I’m backing Alex de Minaur to go a long way, as he was in the mix at every Grand Slam tournament last year, and he has that never-say-die attitude.
“The next generation could also surprise. I was impressed with Joao Fonseca at the Laver Cup. I think he could do a lot of damage, and he seems fearless, as does the young American, Learner Tien.”
Joao Fonseca made his Laver Cup debut in 2025, representing Team World in their successful campaign.
The Brazilian teenager won his only match at the tournament, beating Flavio Cobolli of Team Europe in straight sets.
Fonseca enjoyed a successful first trip around the ATP Tour last season, having claimed two titles and a career-high ranking of 24th in the world.
He has been predicted by many to be the man to snap the dominance of Sinner and Alcaraz.
Rod Laver speaks about Roger Federer’s return to the Australian Open
Laver will be present at the opening ceremony of the Australian Open, which takes place the night before the first day of the main draw at the event.
Also set to be in attendance is Roger Federer, who will make his return to Melbourne Park to feature in an exhibition match with Lleyton Hewitt, Andre Agassi and Patrick Rafter.
Serena Williams picked Roger Federer as the G.O.A.T.
“This year, Roger is returning for the first time since he officially retired at the Laver Cup in 2022,” said Laver.
“I have had the honour of presenting Roger with the Australian Open trophy, which he has won six times, and also when he has been runner-up, which was very emotional.
“It will be quite something to be there at the Opening Ceremony instead of the closing ceremony!”
Federer emerged victorious at the Australian Open six times, two of which came in the twilight of his career.
Receive exclusive tennis news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
