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Jakub Mensik: The Rising Tennis Star Standing in Djokovic’s Way

At just 19 years old, Jakub Mensik is capturing global attention at the Miami Open. The young Czech, currently the youngest player in the ATP Top 50, has been steadily climbing the ranks, proving he has the potential to be one of the sport’s next greats.

Por: Rubén Carrillo
He combines raw power with a devastating serve and a game perfectly suited to hard courts / Photo ATP
He combines raw power with a devastating serve and a game perfectly suited to hard courts / Photo ATP

Born on September 1, 2005, in Prostejov, Czech Republic, Jakub Mensik embodies the characteristics of a modern tennis player. 

 

He combines raw power with a devastating serve and a game perfectly suited to hard courts.

 

His rise through the ranks has been years in the making, with standout performances that have placed him on the radar of tennis enthusiasts and experts alike.

 

His breakthrough moment came in 2022 when he reached the Australian Open junior final and ascended to World No. 2 in the junior rankings. 

 

This achievement earned him a special invitation from none other than Novak Djokovic, the very player he idolized growing up.

Following his impressive junior run, Jakub Mensik received a life-changing opportunity: training with Novak Djokovic / Photo ATP
Following his impressive junior run, Jakub Mensik received a life-changing opportunity: training with Novak Djokovic / Photo ATP

Training with a Legend: Djokovic’s Influence on Mensik

Following his impressive junior run, Jakub Mensik received a life-changing opportunity: training with Novak Djokovic. 

 

The Serbian legend recognized Mensik’s talent and invited him to train in Belgrade and later in Montenegro, an experience that the young Czech describes as invaluable.

 

“Novak knew he was my idol, so he invited me to train with him,” Mensik recalled in an interview with the ATP.

 

 “Spending time with him on and off the court was an incredible experience. It’s amazing when one of the best players in history gives you that kind of opportunity. His advice has been crucial for my development.” said.

 

Mensik’s admiration for Djokovic runs deep. “I play tennis because of Novak,” he stated. “If it weren’t for him, I wouldn’t be here today.”

Mensik’s admiration for Djokovic runs deep. "I play tennis because of Novak," he stated. "If it weren’t for him, I wouldn’t be here today." / Photo ATP
Mensik’s admiration for Djokovic runs deep. "I play tennis because of Novak," he stated. "If it weren’t for him, I wouldn’t be here today." / Photo ATP

A Promising Career: From Junior Success to ATP Contender

Nicknamed “Menimal”, Mensik’s journey in tennis began when he was just five years old. 

 

He started training with Ivo Müller on courts near his home, developing a deep passion for the game. 

 

“I fell in love with tennis by watching matches and tournaments,” he shared.

 

By 2022, Jakub Mensik was already making headlines with several victories on the ITF Futures and ATP Challenger circuits, which helped him climb the ATP rankings. 

 

His first major breakthrough at the Grand Slam level came at the 2023 US Open, where he impressed the tennis world.

 

Mensik successfully navigated the qualifying rounds, defeating seasoned players like Fabio Fognini, before making it to the third round of the main draw. 

 

Along the way, he secured victories against French players Gregoire Barrere and Titouan Droguet before falling to Taylor Fritz, whom he recently faced again in the Miami Open semifinals.

Breakthrough Performances in 2024

The 2024 season has been a game-changer for Mensik. He once again proved his resilience at the Australian Open, coming through the qualifying rounds and delivering a stunning first-round victory over Denis Shapovalov.

 

His impressive run ended in the second round after an intense five-set battle against Hubert Hurkacz, but it was clear that Mensik was on the verge of something big.

 

Facing Djokovic: A Dream Come True

Now, as Jakub Mensik prepares to face Novak Djokovic in the Miami Open final, the young star is embracing the moment. 

 

“I feel incredible,” he said ahead of the match. “Playing against him in Shanghai was a dream come true. But this time, it’s different. I’m a better player now, and I’m going to enjoy every moment. It’s going to be an exciting match—let’s see what happens on Sunday.”

 

As he steps onto the court against his idol, the tennis world will be watching closely, eager to see if this rising star can take another step toward greatness.

His impressive run ended in the second round after an intense five-set battle against Hubert Hurkacz / Photo ATP
His impressive run ended in the second round after an intense five-set battle against Hubert Hurkacz / Photo ATP

Mensik basics

  • Who is Jakub Mensik? Jakub Mensik is a 19-year-old Czech tennis player, currently the youngest player in the ATP Top 50.
  • How did Novak Djokovic influence Mensik’s career? Djokovic invited Mensik to train with him in Belgrade and Montenegro, offering invaluable experience and mentorship
  • What was Mensik’s biggest breakthrough in 2024? His standout performance came at the Doha Open, where he defeated several top players and reached the final.
  • What are Mensik’s thoughts on facing Djokovic in the Miami Open final? He feels excited and confident, acknowledging that he has improved since their last meeting and is eager to compete.

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