Joao Fonseca Picks Federer Over Djokovic in GOAT Debate
Rising tennis star Joao Fonseca has stirred debate by declaring Roger Federer as the greatest player of all time, despite acknowledging Novak Djokovic’s record-breaking achievements.
The teenage sensation, who made waves at the Australian Open by stunning Andrey Rublev in straight sets, was full of admiration for Federer when asked about the long-standing GOAT debate.
“Federer Has No Rival”
In an interview with Globo, Fonseca made his stance clear:
“You can say Djokovic is the best of all time, but for me, there is no way. Djokovic may be the best statistically, but Federer is the greatest. He has no rival.”
Djokovic, who holds the record for most Grand Slam titles, is often considered the GOAT based on pure numbers. However, Federer and Rafael Nadal remain fan favorites due to their unique playing styles and legacy.
Fonseca previously admitted that Federer was his childhood idol, saying at the Australian Open:
“My idol was always Roger. I grew up watching Roger. Of course, I think everyone wanted to play like him.”
Respect for Djokovic and Alcaraz
Despite his preference for Federer, Fonseca remains appreciative of Djokovic, particularly after the Serbian praised his performance in Melbourne.
Speaking to ESPN, the young Brazilian reflected on receiving recognition from the sport’s biggest names:
“Hearing players like Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz talk about me gives me confidence to go even further. Wow, Alcaraz said that about me, Djokovic said that about me. It means I’m on the right track.”
Next Stop: Indian Wells
Fonseca will continue his ATP journey at Indian Wells, where he has received a wildcard entry into the main draw. This will be his second Masters 1000 event following his debut at last year’s Madrid Open.
