PARIS — Brazilian tennis prodigy Joao Fonseca is making waves at the French Open, not just for his explosive game but for how he’s channeling the Big Three—Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Roger Federer. But here’s the twist: he’s copying them in ways you wouldn’t expect.
The Unconventional Blueprint
At just 17, Fonseca has already drawn comparisons to the legends of the sport. But instead of mimicking Nadal’s topspin forehand or Federer’s graceful one-handed backhand, he’s studying their mental frameworks, routines, and off-court habits. "I watch their matches, but I focus more on how they prepare, how they recover, and how they handle pressure," Fonseca told reporters after his first-round win.
His coach, former ATP pro Felipe Meligeni, elaborated: "Joao isn’t trying to play like them—he’s trying to think like them. That’s the real secret." Here’s how Fonseca is breaking down the Big Three’s success:
- Nadal’s Discipline: Fonseca has adopted Nadal’s meticulous pre-match routines, from his exact warm-up timing to his water bottle placement.
- Djokovic’s Flexibility: He’s incorporated yoga and mobility work, inspired by Djokovic’s legendary elasticity.
- Federer’s Efficiency: Instead of grinding for hours, Fonseca prioritizes quality over quantity in practice, mirroring Federer’s streamlined approach.
The Science Behind the Strategy
Sports psychologist Dr. Carla Silva, who works with Fonseca, explained the rationale: "The Big Three’s techniques are unique to their bodies and styles. But their habits—sleep, nutrition, mental resilience—are universal. That’s what Joao is replicating."
Fonseca’s data-driven team has even tracked the Big Three’s match-day schedules, noting how they allocate time for rest, media, and recovery. "Novak doesn’t waste energy on unnecessary things. Neither do I," Fonseca said with a grin.
A New Generation’s Approach
While past players tried to copy Federer’s serve or Nadal’s footwork, Fonseca represents a shift. "Young players now realize it’s not about the strokes—it’s about the system," said ESPN analyst Patrick McEnroe.
Fonseca’s results speak for themselves. Since implementing these changes, he’s risen from No. 500 to No. 150 in the ATP rankings in just 12 months. His French Open debut has already included a straight-sets upset over seeded player Lorenzo Musetti.
The Big Three React
When asked about Fonseca’s approach, Nadal smiled: "If he’s copying my routines, he must be very tired!" Djokovic, meanwhile, praised the Brazilian’s intelligence: "He understands what really matters in this sport."
Federer, watching from the stands, added: "I love that the next generation is looking beyond just forehands and backhands. That’s how tennis evolves."
What’s Next for Fonseca?
With his fourth-round match looming, Fonseca remains focused on the process. "I’m not trying to be them," he stressed. "I’m trying to learn from them so I can be the best version of myself."
Whether he wins or loses in Paris, one thing is clear: Joao Fonseca is rewriting the playbook on how to emulate greatness—and in doing so, he might just forge his own path to legend status.