Federer: Fonseca is very much like Sinner; once awakened, he will be unstoppable; Anva openly admits she resembles Djokovic.

Recently, Swiss icon Federer spoke with France’s L'Équipe, showing strong confidence in Fonseca’s prospects and providing valuable guidance. L'Équipe noted that Federer unusually rated the young Brazilian Fonseca as a “crown prince” of the sport.

This legendary figure, who has observed many talents rise and fall, identified the beginnings of a world-class star in Fonseca. Federer analyzed: “João (Fonseca) is somewhat like Sinner. He is currently at a critical stage of growth—he needs to learn when to fully press the accelerator and when to wisely hold back, mastering the art of controlling his aggression. Once he understands this, his potential will be limitless.”

But the most striking part came when a reporter asked if Fonseca could become the third force to break the “Sinca” duo’s dominance. Federer’s answer revealed even higher expectations for the young player: “You don’t want to be the third person; you want to be that person.” The Swiss legend smiled and said, “I hope everyone thinks like that. Of course, you can’t get ahead of yourself or think too far ahead. But I believe every player on tour should come here and say, ‘I want to win the Australian Open.’ The same goes for João—I want him to have that mindset.”

Federer further detailed what makes this 19-year-old rising star special: “What sets him apart from many others is his energy—his forehand, backhand, and serve all have power, and he fights for every point. He’s passionate, has a strong presence, and is very likable. Seeing all this is truly impressive.”

In fact, Federer’s admiration for Fonseca goes beyond words. When Fonseca was just 17 and still a promising junior, Federer’s investment company On ran decisively signed him. At the 2025 Laver Cup, the two met for the first time and hit it off immediately; fans even noted their expressions looked similar, something Federer himself confirmed. When asked if he might coach Fonseca in the future, Federer left the possibility open: “Never say never! Although I’m busy now, Edberg once said the same.”

Following Federer’s interview, many fans expressed their opinions on social media.

“Is Federer already reserving the men’s singles final spots for the next 20 years? Hearing ‘unstoppable’ come from him carries immense weight!” one fan wrote.

Another fan commented, “But Fonseca just suffered three losses in a row? Now with such praise, the pressure must be huge! Still, Federer is right—learning when to ease off and when to push is key.”

Turning to another tennis news update, in a recent interview, Russian teenage prodigy Andreyeva was asked about the Big Three in tennis. She gave a bold and clear answer: she did not choose the graceful Federer nor the fighter Nadal but openly stated that she admires Novak Djokovic the most.

“I admire Novak’s aura, his ability to overcome challenges, his almost ruthless discipline, and adaptability to any situation,” Andreyeva said with determination shining in her eyes. “Even during the era dominated by Nadal and Federer, I identify more with Novak. I’m similar to him because I have strong self-discipline, know how to find solutions, and face every challenge head-on.”

Her words immediately sparked a huge reaction among fans. International commenters remarked, “In discussions about tennis history, this is undoubtedly a deeply personal and profound stance. Andreyeva isn’t just picking an idol; she’s declaring that her championship model is the one with the greatest resilience.”

Tennis legend Navratilova commented, “For a young girl to say she is like Djokovic takes immense courage and confidence. Djokovic’s victories rely not only on talent but more on his nearly obsessive will to win. If Andreyeva truly has this mindset, the competitive landscape of women’s tennis over the next decade will be completely transformed.”

Domestic fans remarked, “Andreyeva has broadened her vision! At her age, she’s not infatuated with Federer or Nadal’s elegance but understands Djokovic’s toughness. This girl’s inner strength is incredible!”

Shortly after Federer’s interview was published, Fonseca ended his three-match losing streak by defeating compatriot Thiago Monteiro 7-6(1), 6-1 in the first round at the Rio de Janeiro tournament. After the match, he admitted his idol’s advice was correct—finding balance between exertion and stability, motivation and pressure is essential for further progress.

On one side, the tennis king predicts the “new Sinner” will soon be unstoppable; on the other, the talented young girl declares herself akin to Djokovic’s strength. The call for a new generation’s legacy has already echoed through tennis, and the future landscape seems to be arriving sooner and wilder than we imagined!(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Lu Xiaotian)