What Novak Djokovic Told Joao Fonseca After French Open Defeat

Weeks before the French Open, back-to-back champion Carlos Alcaraz opted out of the tournament due to a wrist injury.

New favorite and world No. 1 Jannik Sinner was the next top-ranked victim, losing in a shocking upset to Juan Manuel Cerundolo this week. With Sinner and Alcaraz gone, it looked like Novak Djokovic would have his best chance at winning his first title since the 2024 U.S. Open.

The 39-year-old battled Brazilian teenager Joao Fonseca, who defeated the 24-time major winner 4-6, 4-6, 6-3, 7-5, 7-5 for yet another stunning upset at Roland Garros.

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After the match, Djokovic revealed what he told Fonseca, who advanced to the fourth round of a grand slam for the first time in his career.

“I told him [after the match] that he deserved to win and he should be proud of himself,” Djokovic said. “We’ve all seen today why there is hype around him.”

Djokovic said he was unsure if he would play at the French Open next year, although he said the same after his semifinal defeat to Sinner last year. Despite the loss, the longtime tennis star was pleased with his effort.

“Taking everything in consideration and all the circumstances, I think the level was really good,” he said.

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