Sports
FONSECA STUNS DJOKOVIC TO END RECORD GRAND SLAM BID AT FRENCH OPEN
Teenage sensation Joao Fonseca produced one of the biggest upsets of the tournament by defeating Novak Djokovic in a thrilling five-set battle at the French Open.
The 19-year-old Brazilian fought back to claim a 4-6, 4-6, 6-3, 7-5, 7-5 victory in a marathon contest lasting nearly five hours, ending Djokovic’s latest bid for a record 25th Grand Slam title.
The result makes Fonseca the first teenager to beat Djokovic in a Grand Slam match and further opens up the draw following the earlier exit of world number one Jannik Sinner.
“I actually didn’t believe I could win the match,” Fonseca admitted after the victory. “What an idol we have, and what a pleasure it was to step on the court against him.”
Djokovic appeared in control after taking the first two sets, but Fonseca raised his level dramatically before completing a remarkable comeback, sealing victory with three consecutive aces.
The defeat means Djokovic’s wait to surpass Margaret Court’s record of 24 Grand Slam singles titles will continue.