Fonseca: "I always believed I could get to where I am today, but never so soon"

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The Brazilian star of the circuit is back after winning his first title at the ATP Buenos Aires. Joao Fonseca has had almost no time to rest, as he debuts today in the ATP Rio Open, his local tournament. The 18-year-old aims to triumph at home too, starting by defeating Alexandre Müller today. Everything has happened very quickly for the winner of the past edition of the Next Gen ATP Finals. He spoke at the Brazilian tournament's press conference about how he hasn't had time to process his emergence, as well as his goal of becoming the world number 1.

- His first ATP title in Buenos Aires

"It has been my first title, very special. Now Rio... A lot has changed. It has been a big step in my career to be able to play more and more important tournaments. The first title is always unforgettable. It happened in Argentina, and I wish it could have been in Rio, but still, it is special."

- At a dizzying speed

"Things are quite different now compared to last year. I know that things have happened very quickly in my career, but I believe that the Joao from last year would never have thought he could progress so fast. I quickly moved from juniors to Challengers and then to the ATP. Obviously, I always believed I could get where I am today, but never this soon. It's the first time I realize how things have changed, and that just makes me even prouder of my accomplishments. It's great to see that kids look up to me, and that only makes me stronger and hungrier."

- His goal

"I didn't realize the impact of my performance at the Australian Open, but I was told that many things have changed regarding the media. I have been away from social media for a while, and now I see how everything has changed. I am proud, but I want more. Seeing kids idolize me motivates me to achieve my goal of becoming the number one in the world."

- About the congratulations from his idols

"I feel very honored by the messages I have received from local and international idols. They know who I am. Neymar, Vini Jr, Ronaldo... They are idols, people I considered untouchable. And also, for kids to say that I am their idol is crazy. I am very happy with everything that is happening."

- His experience at the Next Gen tournament almost two months ago

"After the Next Gen ATP Finals, there was an increase in my visibility. It was fantastic for my career. It didn't give me points, but it was a very important title. I think there was a bigger leap afterwards. After Australia, I feel like my life changed within tennis. All players started to respect me more. And now I think everyone has realized that I can go far."

- No injuries in sight to face the Rio Open

"I am in perfect physical condition. The injury I suffered in the semis and finals in Buenos Aires is almost recovered, and I am ready for a long and demanding week here in Rio."

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Fonseca: "Siempre creí que podría llegar a donde estoy hoy, pero nunca tan pronto"