"He will quickly reach a good level on grass": Carlos Alcaraz praises Joao Fonseca after Wimbledon practice session
ATP
Carlos Alcaraz praised Joao Fonseca after their practice session together at Wimbledon. The 2-time defending champion reunited to train with the Brazilian for the first time since the 2023 ATP Finals, where the South American teenager served as a tournament sparring partner at just 17 years old.
Comparisons between Alcaraz and Fonseca have been frequent in the last year, especially due to Fonseca's rapid adaptation to professionalism. The world No. 54 is the only tennis player under 19 ranked within the Top 200; he already won his first ATP title at the Argentina Open and secured his first Top 10 victory at the beginning of the year at the Australian Open against Andrey Rublev (No. 9).
This is only Fonseca's first full season on the ATP Tour, and he will make his debut in the Wimbledon main draw. He faces a tough opening match against local player Jacob Fearnley, who is more than comfortable on grass courts. With limited experience on the surface, Fonseca will need to quickly bring his best tennis if he wants to advance.
Alcaraz was asked about his practice with the talented Brazilian and had no doubt that sooner rather than later, Fonseca would also be able to show his potential on grass courts. "I was excited about hitting with Joao because the last time we practiced together was at the 2023 ATP Finals. Joao is relatively new on grass and lacks experience on this surface.”
“However, he loves to play aggressive tennis, hit big forehands and rush to the net. I'm pretty sure he will quickly reach a good level on grass,” the 5-time Grand Slam champion added. “He is very young, and there are a few things that he has to learn, especially at the beginning of his career. However, his level is already very high.”
Like Fonseca, Alcaraz is also awaiting his debut this Monday. The Spaniard faces Italian Fabio Fognini, whom he has defeated in their last two encounters. The world No. 2 arrives with a streak of 18 consecutive victories and three titles in a row, in addition to being the 2-time defending champion of Wimbledon – having won the finals in 2023 and 2024 against Novak Djokovic.
Carlos Alcaraz x João Fonseca pic.twitter.com/L2eIjkOp4o
— alcaraz archive (@alcarchive) June 28, 2025
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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