Rafael Nadal was honoured yesterday by Roland Garros, for his legendary services to not just their tournament, but the entire sport.
The legacy he leaves behind will likely impact many generations to come, with the current one having grown up idolising his talent, work ethic and core values.
Joao Fonseca is one such player who naturally admires the Spaniard, despite having likely not seen the true prime version of Nadal such is his youth.
It seems that feeling is somewhat reciprocated too.
Rafael Nadal gives his thoughts on Joao Fonseca’s future
Asked about his glorious past, the 38-year-old was more than happy to share his memories from a special career.
Nadal named his favourite Roland Garros title and laughed about the rivalries he shared during an emotional day on Philippe Chatrier.
However, the excitement spilled over into the media room, as he sat down to do one final press conference at the French Open.
One interviewer sought to look to the future though, and asked Rafael Nadal’s thoughts on Fonseca.
Nadal replied: ‘He’s a very young player that started his career very, very well. He has a great future in front of him. I wish him all the best. I met him a couple of times. Seems like he has a very good interaction with his family and people next to him. He’s very well educated.
‘I wish him all the best, I believe he has a great future ahead.’
Joao Fonseca has shot to fame
The way in which Fonseca has shot to fame in the tennis world is so admirable, as a precocious 18-year-old seemingly ready to make his mark on the sport.
He will be hoping he can follow in Nadal’s footsteps as another supremely gifted and successful teenager, starting at the French Open this week.
The Brazilian kickstarts his campaign in Paris tomorrow, but faces a tough first-round task against Geneva Open finalist Hubert Hurkacz.
However, having beaten Andrey Rublev in Melbourne, making history in doing so, there’s no reason for him to not be brimming with confidence.
Fonseca has one of the tour’s most fearsome forehands, and more than enough support to cause a real stir at this tournament. Nadal will likely be watching his progress with interest.
