All eyes are on Brazil’s rising star Joao Fonseca, and for good reason. This ATP star made history by earning a spot alongside tennis’ leading names, Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. Adding to his triumph, Fonseca received a reward, which is enough to make anyone’s jaws drop. When asked how Fonseca planned to use the money, his heartfelt answer expressed his humility and outlined his strong bond with his parents.

Fonseca joined the League of Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz by winning the Next Gen ATP Finals presented by PIF. After the Italian and the Spaniard stars, Fonseca is the only 18-year-old player to achieve this milestone after overpowering Learner Tien in a nerve-wracking four-set match.

“If you told Joao at the start of the year that he did all the things he did this year, he would think it is amazing, t is amazing how I have improved physically and mentally. I have been very strong mentally, winning matches against Top 50, Top 20 players. I am proud of myself, but of course I want more. My dream is to become No. 1. “ said the Brazilian player oozing motivation and confidence.

After earning the historic win at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, the second-youngest titlist in tennis’ history received prize money worth $526, 480. When asked how he would handle so much money, Fonsec’s response was too adorable to miss! Transferring this duty to his parents, this Brazilian ATP star said, “I can’t say that sounds bad. Thankfully my parents will help me with that because it’s a lot of money.” His response showcased his humble mentality. Despite winning big, Fonseca still relied on his parents to make important decisions.

Interestingly, his attitude has been down to earth since the beginning. Not only did he express his delight in having his icon Rafa watching his performance in Jeddah, but he also praised his opponent’s skill showcasing that he was a world-class star in the making.

Joao Fonseca recalls his “nervous” state of mind before winning the Next Gen ATP Finals

Post-match, this Brazilian teenager offered an impressive dose of humbleness while revealing his feelings about his opponent Learner Tien, and how confident he was about this victory.

“I was really nervous before the match. I knew it was going to be so difficult, I played a final against Learner in juniors [at the 2023 US Open] and I know the way he can play. He is such a nice guy and a great player, so I knew it was going to be difficult, mentally and physically. But I got my way through,” he said, highlighting that he never took the task of overcoming his opponent lightly. Moreover, his bout with nervousness also offered a rare reminder of his actual age. However, he overcame the odds and won the title by defeating Tien in a fair and square match.

He further added, “I need to believe when I go to a tournament that I can win, But now I have won it I am thinking, ‘Wow, I made it’. I am very proud of myself.” His words showed how this victory offered him a new zeal and confidence to continue performing well to achieve his dreams.

Joao Fonseca’s story is an inspirational one. Following his idol Nadal’s footsteps, Fonseca built an indomitable spirit and resilience that helped him surprise the fraternity again with his recent victory. Despite victory, his humbleness and polite outlook deserve much applause.