Rafael Nadal's vital presence among rising stars pointed out by second-youngest Next Gen ATP Finals champ Joao Fonseca in moving message
Joao Fonseca expressed gratitude to Rafael Nadal for his presence during the Next Gen ATP Finals final. The 18-year-old won the title with a victory over Learner Tien in Jeddah on Sunday, December 22, and became the second-youngest champion in the tournament's history since Jannik Sinner five years ago.
During the post-match on-court interview, the Brazilian expressed his gratitude, thanking Nadal for his presence in the stands. He said it was an honor to play in front of such a legendary figure.
His comments follow Fonseca's recent recollection of meeting the 22-time Grand Slam champion 14 years ago.
“I want to thank Rafa for being here… he’s such a legend of this sport. It’s meaningful for us players to be in those big stadiums with those guys watching,” Fonseca said.
When asked about joining the ranks of big names such as Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz, Hamad Medjedovic, and Brandon Nakashima, Fonseca responded with optimism about his future:
“It’s amazing. Making good results like those guys… hopefully in the future I can be like them.”
Joao Fonseca had an impressive run, defeating Arthur Fils, Tien, and Jakub Mensik in the group stage. He breezed past Luca Van Assche in the semifinals before taking on Tien again in the final. This time around, he came out on top with a 2-4, 4-3(8), 4-0, 4-2 victory.
Joao Fonseca reveals being "inspired" by Rafael Nadal ahead of Next Gen ATP Finals final
Joao Fonseca revealed he was inspired by Rafael Nadal during an interview after his semifinal match at the Next Gen ATP Finals against Luca Van Assche. The Spaniard made an appearance at the tournament during his three-day visit to Jeddah.
Fonseca shared a heartfelt memory, recalling how, at the age of four, he had the chance to meet the Spanish legend alongside his mother.
“I met Rafa today, so I'm a bit inspired by him,” he said.
The Brazilian also mentioned how learning about Nadal's experiences, hardworking nature, and mental toughness deeply inspired him.
“He said a little bit more about his experience, which is a lot, and his mentality. The way he had that—he's a hard worker—so it's really nice and really inspired me today.”
Nadal's visit to Jeddah comes as part of his role as ambassador for the Saudi Tennis Federation. He pledged to support the growth of tennis in the country and to make a few visits each year with his coaching team.