Jack Draper’s French Open opponent tipped to become a superstar by Nadal | Tennis | Sport
Jack Draper is ready for a rivalry for the ages with the Brazilian teenage sensation backed to be the next superstar by Rafa Nadal. But John McEnroe has claimed that the British No.1 will win “multiple Majors” after reaching the French Open third round for the first time. World No.5 Draper saw off French veteran Gael Monfils, 38, in a late-night Thursday thriller.
Now he will have face Joao Fonseca, the 18-year-old who has shot to tennis fame since winning the NextGen title in December and beating world No.9 Andrey Rublev on his Grand Slam debut in Australia. Word is spreading and there have been massive queues snaking around Roland Garros to see the big-hitting Fonseca in his first two matches here. At a strapping 6ft 2ins, he is the next big thing. Nadal said: “He’s started his career doing very, very well. He has a great future in front of him.”
Draper beat world No.65 Fonseca in their only previous meeting at Indian Wells on his way to the title. And the British No.1 said: “I think I’m going to be playing him a lot. I think we’ll be seeing him a lot at the back ends of draws and right at the top of the game, I think everyone can see his potential. He is a very powerful, very dynamic player, very explosive.
“And I think that’s what’s drawn a lot of people to watch him. It’s incredible what he brings to the sport. And obviously his Brazilian support is great as well. I look forward to the challenge of playing him. It will be a tough battle for sure. And I think I’ll be playing him for many years to come, not just on Saturday.”
Draper got a taste of Fonseca’s popularity at March’s Miami Open. Organisers switched the Brazilian’s match at late notice from the already packed Grandstand to the main Stadium Court – and the announcement was made during the British No.1’s contest against Jakub Mensik. Furious Brazilian fans started booing in protest – and the umpire halted play until order was restored.
“I thought the crowd was there to watch me but then after a couple of games they started booing loudly and went out,” Draper laughed. Brazilian Gustavo ‘Guga’ Kuerten – who Fonseca called a “legend” is still a huge crowd favourite at the French Open after his three titles. Now the teenager is already getting similar support here.
“Sometimes I feel goose bumps when the people are shouting or calling my name.,” he said “It’s just super nice. It’s a vibe that I can’t explain. It’s loud. Brazilian people are loud. It’s just incredible to represent your country, and they are cheering for you.”
Draper is also making a big noise this year after also reaching the final of the Madrid Masters and climbing into the top five.
After watching the Monfils win, McEnroe told TNT Sports: “He won a lot of fans tonight with the way he played and the way he acted and the way he handled the whole situation. You see Jack Draper maturing, playing better and better on the spot. I’d be surprised if he doesn’t win multiple majors, it is incredible how much he’s improving and how great a player Draper has become.”
The seven-time Grand Slam winner, now 66, added: “He can do everythingHe’s an excellent volleyer, the serve is huge. He took his shirt off and I was immediately jealous. The guy is in unbelievable shape. I tell you, he’s got a lot of big things to look forward to.”
