On a day filled with delays, humidity, and a struggling Novak Djokovic, 19-year-old Jakub Mensik delivered a career-defining performance to claim his first ATP title. The Czech teenager overpowered the 37-year-old legend in two tense tiebreaks, winning 7-6 (4), 7-6 (4) to announce himself as tennis’ next rising star.
The Miami Open final, originally scheduled for the afternoon, was delayed by over five hours due to rain. When play finally began, Djokovic battled more than just his young opponent, an eye infection and a slippery court added to his woes. But the biggest challenge came from Mensik’s fearless approach and booming serve, which clocked in at 130 mph.
Ranked 54th entering the tournament, Mensik showed poise beyond his years. He fired 14 aces, was broken just once, and sealed the victory with a service winner before collapsing onto the court in disbelief. “You’re the one I idolized when I was young,” Mensik told Djokovic during the trophy ceremony. “I started playing tennis because of you.”
For Djokovic, the loss was a missed opportunity to claim his 100th career title and a record-extending seventh Miami Open crown. Despite the setback, he acknowledged Mensik’s brilliance. “It hurts me to admit it, but you were better,” Djokovic said. “In the clutch moments, you delivered the goods.”
The crowd, overwhelmingly in Djokovic’s favor, stayed late into the night, chanting his name and urging him on. The Serbian, once a polarizing figure in Miami, appreciated the support. “It was one of the warmest crowds I’ve ever had,” he said.
Djokovic’s struggles were evident. He applied eye drops during changeovers and slipped twice on the humid court. While he downplayed his condition, saying he “didn’t feel my greatest,” the disruptions clearly affected his rhythm.
Mensik had faced Djokovic before, losing a tense three-setter in Shanghai last year. This time, he played with more confidence. He raced to a 3-0 lead, absorbed Djokovic’s fightback, and controlled both tiebreaks with a mix of power and composure.
The teenager nearly withdrew from the tournament due to a knee injury but now leaves Miami as a champion. Djokovic, who once invited Mensik to train with him at 16, recognized his potential. “He has the complete game,” Djokovic said. “His serve is incredible, powerful, precise.”
With this win, Mensik has signaled his arrival on the big stage. For Djokovic, the wait for title No. 100 continues.
