19-year-old Jakub Mensik has been crowned Miami Open Champion as he defeated tennis great Novak Djokovic by 7-6 (4),7-6(4) at the Hard Rock stadium .
This victory almost did not make it into the history books, as Mensik almost withdrew from the tournament due to a knee injury.
Before his opener match against Roberto Bautista Agust on the 20th of March, he went in search of the referee heading the match, but he was out for lunch.
His last hope was the physiotherapist, but he was persuaded to continue playing in the tournament as his injury was deemed not serious and could be treated.
“I couldn’t walk, I couldn’t run. I started to treat it, started to take painkillers. Nothing was helping. I was visiting the referee’s office to say ‘guys, I’m pulling out’, but he was having lunch. After a few minutes, I started to feel a little relief,” said Mensik.
The Czeh won all seven tiebreaks he played in his six matches in Miami, which is the most any player has won en route to securing a master’s 1000 title.
He won two tiebreaks against Jack Draper in the second round, one against Arther Fils in the quarterfinals, two against Taylor Fritz in the last four and two against Djokovic in the final.
Mensik paid tribute to Novak Djokovic, stating, “He is the reason why I am here. After the 2022 Australian Open during his days as a junior, Djokovic invited him for practice.”
The 37-year-old also congratulated the young blood and wished him all the best. “I wish you the best of luck. Maybe you’ll let me win one of the next times we play.”
Now ranked 24, Mensik is the fifth youngest man to win the master’s 1000 title after Chang, Rafael Nadal, Carlos Alcaraz, and Holger Rune.
There is still more to look out for says Mensik before the interview ended, he still has a lot to offer, his hungry for more wins, and he still has to improve and sharpen his skills.
“I know this is just the beginning for me and I am still 19 years old. I still have my career ahead of me and I am hungry for more.”
