Teen's nod to Roger Federer after pulling off insane upset against top 10 star Andrey Rublev
World No.112 Joao Fonseca channeled the talent of Roger Federer on the court and his modesty post-match after pulling off a massive upset, knocking out top 10 star Andrey Rublev.
The Brazilian 18-year-old was unstoppable on Margret Court Arena, winning 7-6 (7-1), 6-3, 7-6 (7-5) to stun all onlookers.
Rublev, who is notorious for his on-court outbursts, pledged he had become more relaxed during a candid interview with The Guardian pre-tournament.
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That mantra was on show when he cracked a smile shaking Fonseca's hand post-match but there were moments he lost his cool, throwing a racquet at one stage.
Andrey Rublev throws his racquet. Getty
Rublev's main frustrations came from five double faults and 25 unforced errors.
Fonseca had more unforced errors with 32 but dominated his rival by hitting 51 winners.
When he hit match point down the line, a loud cheer spread across Margaret Court Arena and the 18-year-old pumped his chest.
Joao Fonseca celebrates. Getty
"I just enjoyed every moment, this court is an amazing court, it's my first time playing in a huge stadium," he said post-match on Nine's coverage.
"I really want to thank this amazing crowd, there are some Brazilians here," he said, quickly re-evaluating following a loud cheer.
"A lot of Brazilians here."
Despite pulling off a big upset, the Brazilian continued to stay modest during his interview.
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Andrea Petkovic left him slightly speechless when she asked him how much it would cost to buy his talent, before laughing and admitting it was an unfair question.
Fonseca's response was all class though.
"It is a little bit unfair," he smiled.
"Like Roger (Federer) says talent is not enough for hard work so I put a lot of hard work in, me and my team knows that."
Fonseca then yelled "Aqui é Brasil, vamooo" as his final message, translated to "This is Brazil, let's go".
