Joao Fonseca has responded after his Roland Garros run ended with defeat to Jakub Mensik in the quarter-finals.
The Brazilian was beaten 6-4, 6-3, 7-6(3) as Mensik moved into the biggest match of his Grand Slam career so far.
Fonseca’s reaction was calm and specific. He did not frame the result as a poor performance, instead pointing to the quality of the player across the net.
Joao Fonseca explains Jakub Mensik defeat at Roland Garros
Speaking after the match, Fonseca said: “I don’t think I played badly. Jakub played very good tennis and I wish him good luck for the rest of the tournament.”
“His serve is incredible. The way he handles the important points is very impressive. He controlled the match thanks to the quality of his serve and his returns.”
Fonseca added: “I think he has huge potential. He has already won a Masters 1000. He has reached his first Grand Slam semi-final here. He plays extremely well. He is not afraid. He is brave. I wish him the best, because he is someone kind and humble.”
Jakub Mensik moves into first Grand Slam semi-final
Mensik’s win took him into his first Grand Slam semi-final, where he is set to face Alexander Zverev.
Zverev reached the same stage after beating Rafael Jódar, giving Mensik another major test after his straight-sets win over Fonseca.
Fonseca’s comments also went beyond the match. He called Mensik fearless, brave, kind and humble, and wished him well for the rest of the tournament.
It was a clear and respectful reaction from Fonseca, who left Roland Garros by giving full credit to the player who ended his campaign.
