To give your tree a chance, you can clear around it, add some manure or slow release fertilizer (l9ke Osmocote) and keep the soil moist. Your fig tree will grow. When you want it to branch, cut a couple of inches from the top and it will branch.
Sal

Quamquat
That wise person was correct. You have to provide moisture and some nutrient in the early years so the roots get well developed and cover more area and depth so it can reach out for collecting moisture and nutrients for its survival and growth. Then the growth in return helps the root system and the tree flourishes.

Thanks much. Sounds do-able.