Fonseca returns in tears: "I couldn't say no to Brazil"

Joao Fonseca needed an afternoon like this in Davis Cup. His summer was marked by injuries, the misfortune of having to withdraw from the Masters 1000 in Cincinnati, and, above all, missing out on the US Open. The Brazilian returned to the tennis court this Friday, and he did so at home, wearing Brazil's jersey and in front of an enthusiastic crowd.

The result was a great victory against Dominic Stricker that left Fonseca emotional and in tears. The world No. 29 had not played an official match for about thirty days due to that abdominal injury, with his last performance dating back to August 16 in Cincinnati, where he won against Botic van de Zandschulp before being forced to withdraw from the tournament. I can’t think of a better place to return to the court than the most prestigious team competition in history.

Fonseca breaks down in tears after his return in Davis Cup

“It has been a difficult year. I have struggled with a lack of confidence and some injuries. I didn’t come here at 100%, I couldn’t even guarantee that I would be able to play, but this moment, playing the Davis Cup for Brazil, means a lot to me. I gave my best and it is a very important victory for me and for the team,” explained Fonseca after the match in statements collected by the portal Tennis News.

The confession helps to better understand the significance of a victory that, from the outside, might seem straightforward due to the ranking difference between the two players. Stricker arrived as the world No. 262, but Fonseca needed three sets to turn around a match that started with a tough uphill battle. The Brazilian lost the first set 6-4, reacted with a 6-3 in the second, and ultimately imposed his superiority in the third set, winning 6-2.

Pure relief and raw emotion from João Fonseca after match point 🥹🇧🇷#DavisCup pic.twitter.com/MdVnAlw5wP

— Davis Cup (@DavisCup) September 18, 2026

Beyond the result, Fonseca himself highlighted the value that this comeback can have in regaining feelings after a challenging period. “Without a doubt, this victory can bring me a lot of confidence, but also a lot of maturity. Not just for the rest of the year, but for the rest of my career,” he noted. Another special detail was seen in the stands, where Gustavo Kuerten was present.

The great historical figure of Brazilian tennis congratulated the young player and joked about whether his presence near the court helped him or made him more nervous. Fonseca did not hesitate to respond with a smile: “It is an honor to play in front of you. The history you have made in tennis is wonderful. Thank you for inspiring us in this way. The phase of being a nuisance has passed, now you only help,” the carioca remarked with emotion.

Brazil thus started with a 1-0 lead against Switzerland in a tie whose winner will advance to the qualifying round of the 2027 World Group, however, for Fonseca, there was something more important than the score. After weeks of doubt, pain, and absence, today was key to feeling like a tennis player again. And moreover, winning.

This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Fonseca vuelve entre lágrimas: "No podía decirle que no a Brasil"