World No. 54 Joao Fonseca, who advanced to the third round of Wimbledon today, highlighted the main area of his improvement this season.
“I think I`ve improved the most psychologically,” Fonseca stated in his post-match press conference after the second round. “I transitioned from the junior tour and this is my first full year on the main tour. The psychology in professional tennis is completely different. Sometimes you play your best tennis but still lose because your opponent finds ways, fights for crucial points… And sometimes you get nervous yourself in key rallies. I believe this is the area where I`ve made the biggest gains.”
The young Brazilian will next face qualifier Nicolas Jarry.
“I have great respect for players who have gone through ups and downs but kept coming back time and time again,” Fonseca commented on his upcoming opponent. “Nicolas`s journey is very inspiring. I know him well; we talk at tournaments. It`s great to see him traveling with his children. He`s a great player with a fantastic serve and knows how to perform well on grass. I`ll just try to enjoy the moment, playing in the third round. I hope I can keep progressing.”
Gilbert Pendleton