Alejandro Davidovich Fokina has tipped João Fonseca to be the next Novak Djokovic following his defeat to the teenager in the 2025 Swiss Indoors in Basel. The Spaniard was defeated 6-3, 6-4, in Basel on Sunday, suffering his fifth loss in as many finals played.
Fonseca won the second, and arguably biggest, title of his career, having got his hands on the IEB+ Argentina Open back in February. After the match, Fokina heaped praise on the Brazilian for his performance.
The 26-year-old backed Fonseca to challenge Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner for the biggest honours, just like Djokovic did to Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal. At the awards ceremony, Fokina said: “You played unbelievable tennis today.
“You are the person of this sport. You have a bright future for sure. You’re gonna be the next Nole, and beat Carlos and Jannik for sure.”
Fonseca appreciated the kind words, but he brushed off comparisons to the tennis legend. He replied: “I’m not a fan of these comparisons.
“Everyone has their own history. I think it’s a pleasure hearing those kind words from Alejandro. He is a great guy, friend and fighter.
“I’m trying my best, but we all know that Jannik and Carlos are playing next-level tennis. So all the other players from the tour, we are working harder and harder to keep going with them.”
By defeating Fokina, Fonseca became the third-youngest ATP 500 champion in series history, since 2009. The teenage sensation dedicated his victory to his mother.
“Since I was young, my mum travelled with me. Since I was 11, I only travelled with her, so that title is for her.”
Fonseca’s parents didn’t initially plan to visit Basel, missing most of his run to the final. But, once he defeated Jaume Munar in the semi-final on Saturday, they made a last-minute decision to change their flights.
Fonseca added: “My parents just came from Brazil. They were coming to Paris and changed their flights and came here one hour before the match with my uncles. It is just amazing to have them here for the biggest title of my career.”
On Tuesday, Fonseca entered the Paris Masters, taking on Denis Shapovalov in the round of 64. The teenager will be hoping to continue his excellent vein of form and lift another piece of silverware.
