Brazilian teenager Joao Fonseca defeated Novak Djokovic 4-6, 4-6, 6-3, 7-5, 7-5 in the French Open third round on Friday, claiming a landmark victory that marks the first time a teenager has beaten the Serbian champion at a Grand Slam. The match lasted nearly five hours on Court Philippe Chatrier.
How did Fonseca overcome Djokovic?
Fonseca came from behind after dropping the first two sets to Djokovic, who played with early command and won five of the opening six games. Djokovic, who turned 39 a week earlier, produced heavy forehands, delicate drop shots, and a stunning lob in the opening set to establish control. The 19-year-old Brazilian matched Djokovic's intensity in the middle sets and broke early in the fourth to level the match, then came from 1-3 down in the fifth set to secure the win with aggressive ball-striking.
What does this mean for the draw?
Djokovic's defeat extends his wait to surpass Margaret Court's record of 24 Grand Slam titles and further opens the French Open field. The result comes one day after world No. 1 Jannik Sinner's shock exit, removing two major contenders from the tournament.
Sources
- Khaleej Times: French Open: Teenager Fonseca tames Djokovic as shocks continue in Paris. Published 2026-05-30.
Reported from public sources.