Joao Fonseca couldn’t help but joke about the timing of his birth and Andre Agassi’s retirement, highlighting the generational gap between the young Brazilian and the tennis legend now serving as Team World’s coach. “He told me, ‘I retired in 2006,’ and I was like, ‘I was born in 2006,’” Fonseca recalled after his impressive 6-4, 6-3 victory over Flavio Cobolli on Friday night.
Agassi playfully covered his face with a Team World jacket but had plenty to be proud of as Fonseca secured Team World’s first point of the 2025 Laver Cup, breaking Team Europe’s early 2-0 lead.
“It’s amazing,” Fonseca said. “The experience and guidance from legends like Andre and Pat Rafter have been invaluable. I’m very thankful for their support this week.”
The 19-year-old Rio native has enjoyed a breakthrough 2025 season, entering the ATP Top 50 after strong showings at Roland Garros and Wimbledon. In his Laver Cup debut, Fonseca overcame an early break down against fellow rookie Cobolli, rallying from 2-4 behind to take control and serve out the match.
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“My team really helped me stay positive,” Fonseca said. “I was nervous early on, but talking with Andre and the team kept me focused.”
Playing in front of a passionate crowd, including a strong contingent of Brazilian fans, Fonseca expressed his gratitude for the support. “It’s a pleasure to play in front of so many legends and an amazing crowd. It really means a lot.”
The first day of Laver Cup will wrap up with a doubles match featuring World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz and Jakub Mensik for Team Europe, taking on Team World’s Taylor Fritz and Alex Michelsen.
