
There are those who believe Joao Fonseca is the most likely to break through and challenge Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner at the top of men’s tennis.
The Brazilian wonderkid, along with others like Ben Shelton, Jack Draper, and Felix Auger-Aliassime, has both the talent and the youth to push this dominant duo in the coming years.
It also feels like that is exactly what men’s tennis could use right now, especially since all of the last eight Grand Slam titles have been won by just two players.
Though still young, Fonseca has the potential to elevate a dominant duo into a new ‘Big Three’ in 2026, provided he addresses and refines certain key weaknesses in his game.
Fonseca, who has yet to face Alcaraz in an official match, shared just how much influence the Spaniard has already had on him, even without direct competition between them.
Their first meeting is scheduled for later this month at the Miami Invitational.
Speaking to Sport TV about the six-time Grand Slam winner, Fonseca said: “He’s so important to our sport, and just being there, experiencing that moment with him meant a lot to me.”
He added: “Watching his routine, seeing how he prepares for matches, that was really valuable for my own growth.”
Fonseca also responded to praise he had received from Alcaraz: “And receiving a compliment from him recently, like you [the interviewer] mentioned, that’s something really important that helps me keep going and keep believing.”
Back in October, the Spaniard said: “He’s [Fonseca] a special and incredible player.
“The power he has is impressive, his serve is very good, something that, for me, when I entered the tour, was what I struggled with the most.
“Joao also has a brutal forehand.”
The central question surrounding Fonseca is whether he possesses the ability to elevate the current prominence of the New Two, thus establishing a rejuvenated Big Three.
Toni Nadal recently pointed out that they do not have any real competition right now, so there is a clear need for someone to step up.
Fonseca has the natural ability to be that player. He keeps popping up in these conversations for good reason, and his forehand already ranks among the best on tour.
Alcaraz knows exactly what Fonseca brings, but you get the sense he would welcome another player raising the standard. If Fonseca does break through in 2026, it could be just what the sport needs.
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