'He will quickly reach a good level on grass': Carlos Alcaraz praises Joao Fonseca after Wimbledon practice session

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.