Joao Fonseca reacts to Novak Djokovic comparisons after winning Basel title

Wednesday, 29 October 2025 at 11:00

byJordan Reynolds

Joao Fonseca achieved the most significant result of his career at the 2025 Swiss Indoors in Basel, but he did not agree with his beaten opponent's comparison of him to Novak Djokovic.

The 19-year-old became an ATP 500 champion for the first time after defeating Alejandro Davidovich Fokina in the final. It was his second title overall, and maiden one indoors after winning February's 2025 Argentina Open on outdoor clay.

By contrast, Davidovich Fokina missed another opportunity to became an ATP title winner. The Spaniard, who had several match points against Alex de Minaur in the 2025 Citi Open final, has now lost all five of his finals.

Despite that tough moment, Davidovich Fokina was gracious in the trophy ceremony. He congratulated Fonseca on his victory and predicted he would be the next Novak Djokovic in future years.

Those words from Davidovich Fokina generated much attention. Although an outstanding talent, Fonseca only took one tiny step toward emulating 24-time Grand Slam champion Djokovic, the most statistically successful player in history.

Fonseca responded to the comparison in an interview with the ATP. Although appreciative of Davidovich Fokina's words, the teenager wants to create his own journey, and mentioned that he is not near Jannik Sinner or Carlos Alcaraz's level yet either.

"I am not a fan of these comparisons. Everyone has their own history… I think it’s a pleasure hearing those kind words for him. Great guy, great friend, great fighter…I’m trying my best, but we all know that Jannik [Sinner] and Carlos [Alcaraz] are playing next-level tennis. So all the other players from the tour, we are working harder & harder to keep going with them."

The Brazilian's response seems wise. Rather than talking openly about wanting to emulate the man many consider to be the best player in tennis history, Fonseca is not getting ahead of himself and wants to focus on his own career.

If Fonseca wins a Grand Slam, questions about whether he can match Djokovic may be more reasonable, but even then may be too early. Fonseca has so many years ahead to develop his game.

Fonseca will want to challenge Alcaraz and Sinner's dominance

Alcaraz and Sinner have split the eight Grand Slams since 2024 began. A 38-year-old Djokovic's level, when fit and playing at his best, has been the third best in that time, which must be disappointing for the other players.

Alexander Zverev is the world No. 3, and pushed Sinner close in last week's 2025 Vienna Open. However, he has a significant mindset issue in important Grand Slam matches, and must make changes to win a maiden major title.

A few years ago, some thought Sinner, Alcaraz, and Holger Rune may be the new Big 3. Unfortunately for the Dane, that did not happen, and he now faces a significant spell on the sidelines after sustaining a horrific Achilles injury at the 2025 Stockholm Open.

Fonseca is still far behind Alcaraz and Sinner, but his talent is evident. With more work in future years, he could be the man who rises to the top and challenges the duo that has dominated.