Iga Swiatek has shared which player helped her enjoy watching men’s tennis again after Rafael Nadal retired. The world No. 2 admitted that she stopped watching ATP matches after Nadal ended his career last November. But now, a young rising star has caught her attention.
Swiatek had a hard time finding a new player to support after Nadal left. But she has now become a fan of Joao Fonseca, an 18-year-old Brazilian who is having a breakthrough season. Fonseca has been considered a future star for some time, and he is already proving himself.
He finished 2024 by winning the Next Gen ATP Finals, a tournament that has launched the careers of players like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner. In January, he won the Canberra Challenger title and then qualified for his first Grand Slam at the Australian Open. There, he shocked everyone by beating the ninth seed, Andrey Rublev, in the first round.
Last month, Fonseca won his first ATP title in Buenos Aires and reached a career-high ranking of No. 68. His rapid rise has impressed many people—including Swiatek.
“When Rafa retired, I didn’t watch much ATP tennis. I always followed Carlos Alcaraz,” Swiatek said.
“I struggled to find other players I really liked watching. Then I saw Joao play, and I loved his style, the way he moves, and the decisions he makes on the court.”
Fonseca has made such an impact on Swiatek that she now wants to watch more men’s tennis because of him.
“I think he’s a player I will definitely follow. He’s been amazing,” she said.
“There’s a lot of pressure on him, so I hope Brazilian fans give him time to grow. If he stays calm and takes things step by step, he will become a great player.”
Swiatek and Fonseca also have something in common—they are both sponsored by Swiss sportswear brand On. Because of this, Swiatek has been following his progress for a while.
Both players are currently competing in Indian Wells. Swiatek is trying to defend her title, while Fonseca is making his debut as a wildcard.
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