Joao Fonseca reveals Roger Federer inspiration behind massive Australian Open 1R win against Andrey Rublev

Joao Fonseca recalled a valuable Roger Federer advice after clinching the biggest win of his young career at the 2025 Australian Open. The Brazilian has been growing rapidly and caused the biggest upset of the tournament, so far, by ousting ninth seed Andrey Rublev in the opening round.

Fonseca kicked off his campaign at the Happy Slam by taking out Federico Gomez following which he comfortably ousted Coleman Wong and Thiago Tirante to qualify for his maiden main draw at a Major. Many were eager to see how the 18-year-old would perform against Rublev and he did not disappoint. He defeated the Russian 7-6(1), 6-3, 7-6(5) in two hours and 23 minutes.

During the post-match interview, he was asked where in Brazil and for how much could his level of talent be bought. Joao Fonseca stated Roger Federer's important advice about how talent isn't enough.

“It’s a bit unfair. Like Roger says… talent isn’t enough. So I put a lot of hard work. Me and my team know that.”

Fonseca has been in scintillating form since the last few tournaments winning the Next Gen Finals and the Challenger in Canberra. He is currently on a 14-match win streak and has won his last 22 sets.

"I mean, not bad" - Joao Fonseca opens up about defeating Andrey Rublev at the Margaret Court Arena

Joao Fonseca and Andrey Rublev - Source: Getty

When asked for his initial reactions to his massive performance against Andrey Rublev, Joao Fonseca said he soaked in every single since it was his first time playing at a stadium of the Margeret Court Arena's stature.

"I mean, not bad. I just enjoyed every moment in this amazing court. This is my first time playing in a huge stadium in my first main draw of a Grand Slam, so I just enjoyed playing."

He also thanked the Brazilian crowd for their unbridled support throughout the match.

"And I really wanna thank this amazing crowd. There are a lot of Brazilians here who are cheering for me, and I just enjoyed every moment, just thank you a lot."

Joao Fonseca will play Lorenzo Sonego in the second round, an opponent he is 1-0 up against. The Italian kicked off his campaign at the Melbourne Major by defeating the 2014 champion Stan Wawrinka 6-4, 5-7, 7-5, 7-5. The winner of their match will play either Fabian Marozsan or 17th seed Frances Tiafoe next.