Teenager Jakub Mensik delivered a stunning performance to deny Novak Djokovic his 100th ATP singles title, clinching the Miami Open in straight sets.
The 19-year-old Czech triumphed 7-6 (7-4), 7-6 (7-4) over the 24-time Grand Slam champion on a humid Miami night, securing his first-ever ATP Tour title. Djokovic, bidding to become just the third man in the Open era to reach 100 career singles titles, was left waiting after Mensik’s fearless display.
Mensik, who was only 10 months old when Djokovic won his first ATP title in 2006, is now the ninth-youngest Masters 1000 champion and the third-youngest in Miami history, following Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal.
His powerful serve and dominant backhand have quickly propelled him into the world’s top 50.
Reflecting on his journey, Mensik credited Djokovic as a major inspiration. The Serbian had invited him to train together after the 2022 Australian Open when Mensik was still a junior. “He’s the reason I’m here,” Mensik said during his winner’s speech.
The young champion also revealed he nearly withdrew from the tournament due to a knee injury before his first match.
“One hour before my opening match, I was ready to pull out, but my physio worked a miracle. That’s why I’m standing here today.”
Djokovic, the fourth seed in Miami, graciously acknowledged Mensik’s victory. “It hurts me to admit it, but you were better,” he said. “I wish you the best of luck, maybe you’ll let me win one next time.”
With this breakthrough win, Mensik has announced himself as a rising force in men’s tennis, and his fearless play suggests this could be just the beginning.
