Jakub Mensik is optimistic that his Miami Open performance is just the start of a successful career. The young Czech tennis player achieved a significant milestone by defeating Novak Djokovic in a major final.
“I`m only 19,” Mensik stated, “and my entire career is ahead of me. It`s fantastic to have this trophy, but I`m aiming for more than just one title. I`m hungry for further victories.”
Mensik was direct in his comments after securing his first ATP title against his childhood idol, Djokovic, preventing the former world No. 1 from achieving his 100th title.
His ambition for success is clear.
Mensik, who also defeated world No. 4 Taylor Fritz and Indian Wells champion Jack Draper, is set to reach a career-high ranking of No. 24. Just two years prior, he was ranked 390th.
He is the first Czech player to win an ATP Masters 1000 event since Tomas Berdych`s Paris victory in 2005.
Mensik`s victory over the 24-time Grand Slam champion was marked by composure and powerful serves, including 14 aces. He was only broken once, denying Djokovic his 100th title and a record seventh Miami Open win.
Who is Jakub Mensik?
Nicknamed `Menimal`, the talented 19-year-old enjoys spare ribs and stands tall at 6ft 4in. He is following in the footsteps of Czech tennis legends Petra Kvitova and Tomas Berdych.
At 17, he was the youngest player since Borna Coric in 2014 to win a main-draw match at the US Open, reaching the third round in 2023 before being defeated by Fritz.
Mensik even received a practice invitation from Djokovic after his initial breakthrough.
“Practicing with Novak was very important for me,” he reflected. “It was an invaluable experience that pushed me considerably. Learning from the best player in the world is incredible.”
In 2024, Mensik reached his first tour final at the Qatar Open, defeating Andy Murray and Andrey Rublev before losing to Karen Khachanov. He also upset Grigor Dimitrov at the Madrid Masters and reached the US Open third round for the second consecutive year.
He surprised Casper Ruud at the Australian Open but was then defeated by Alejandro Davidovich Fokina.
After a dip in form following Melbourne, Mensik`s resurgence at the Miami Open showcased his maturity and ability to overcome a tennis legend.
Mensik is part of a promising generation of young players, including Joao Fonseca, Learner Tien, and Arthur Fils.
