Fonseca: "I couldn't control the nerves or be myself on the track"

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Since his first ATP title just a few days ago, Joao Fonseca has become a star wherever he goes. The 18-year-old Brazilian is living a dream, but one he had to abruptly wake up from at the ATP Rio Open. Fonseca couldn't handle the pressure of playing at home and being the main local attraction of the tournament, which led him to fall in his debut against Alexandre Müller. Thus, Fonseca went to the press conference to talk about what he felt on the court: a lot of nerves. Joao's sadness was very evident, but he also wanted to make it clear that this won't sink him, but rather serve as a way to evolve and improve for what's to come.

- Pressure and nerves, to blame

"I knew I would get nervous, that I would have to face the fear of playing in front of so many people. I tried with all my might to confront the moment, but I couldn't. This is part of the sport. It's about learning from these experiences to become stronger. I can only thank all the fans and the Brazilian people for their affection. It's sad not being able to play another match with the best crowd in the world. We are working to have more moments like this in the future."

- Almost unable to do much until the second set

"That's tennis, generally you lose more than you win. I want to improve as an athlete and as a person. I couldn't play my game, I wasn't happy, I wasn't content, I didn't engage with the crowd. I couldn't be myself on the court. In the second set, I improved, I was less nervous, I breathed better, moved my legs better, but it wasn't enough. I feel very sad for not being able to match his best level."

- Physically feeling good, now back to training

"Physically I was at 100%. Today had nothing to do with physicality, just mental. I've already talked to my coach, told him how I felt, that I was sad for not handling the nerves and fear. I couldn't deliver a good match. From today to tomorrow, I'll be sad and mad at myself, but I know this is just the beginning. I have a long way ahead. I will rest on Wednesday and train again on Thursday. There are tournaments ahead and a long career ahead. I have to keep improving on and off the court."

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Fonseca: "No pude controlar los nervios ni ser yo mismo en la pista"