Joao Fonseca stands out as a rising star on the ATP Tour. In 2025, the 19-year-old Brazilian climbed from outside the top 100 into the top 25, securing his first two career titles. Fans flock to venues to catch his matches.
Novak Djokovic Praises Additional Young Talents
Novak Djokovic hails Fonseca as a future superstar while emphasizing that Jakub Mensik and Learner Tien merit equal attention for their impressive results.
Mensik, 19, captured the 2025 Miami Open title by defeating Jack Draper, Arthur Fils, Taylor Fritz, and Djokovic. Tien stunned Daniil Medvedev at the 2025 Australian Open and claimed his first title in Metz that year.
Both players sustain their form into 2026. Mensik advanced to the Australian Open’s second week before an injury withdrawal, then upset Jannik Sinner in Doha’s quarterfinals. Tien reached his first Grand Slam quarterfinal in Melbourne.
Djokovic on Tien’s Potential
Djokovic admires Tien’s trajectory despite less hype than Fonseca. “I think he’s a very talented player,” Djokovic said. “I played him at the US Open last year. It was likely his first night session, so he may not have performed at his peak, unlike in wins over Medvedev in Australia or Miami recently.”
“He has delivered great results and remains very young. With Fonseca and Mensik, they form the next generation—similar ages. Fonseca enjoys much spotlight, which he deserves, but these others do too based on their achievements over the past 12 months,” Djokovic added.
Guidance from Michael Chang
Tien trains under tennis legend Michael Chang, the youngest men’s Grand Slam winner at age 17 with his 1989 French Open victory. Djokovic views this partnership favorably.
“Tien has Michael Chang, an all-time great and Grand Slam champion who dominated and grasps young players’ pressures,” Djokovic noted. “Chang offers excellent advice on handling early success before full maturity in game, emotions, and surroundings.”
“Tien assembles a strong team, backed by USTA support as an American. He possesses all traits of a top player—now it depends on him,” Djokovic concluded.
