Czech teenager Jakub Mensik pulled off a spectacular upset on Sunday, defeating his childhood idol Novak Djokovic 7-6(4), 7-6(4) to claim his first ATP title at the Miami Open.
The 19-year-old, ranked 54th in the world, showcased maturity beyond his years as he faced the seasoned Serbian, a 24-time Grand Slam champion. In only his second ATP final, Mensik unleashed 14 aces, sealing the victory with an unreturnable serve before collapsing on the court in sheer joy.
Djokovic, 37, aimed to secure his 100th career title, hoping to join legends Jimmy Connors and Roger Federer in the exclusive club of men with 100 or more titles in the Open Era. However, after enduring several rain delays and battling apparent discomfort from swelling near his right eye, the veteran couldn’t keep up with the young Czech’s relentless pace.
The match was intense from the start. Djokovic gifted Mensik an early break with an uncharacteristic error and took a tumble in the fifth game. Though he rallied to level the set, frustration mounted as Mensik dominated the tiebreak, jumping to a 5-0 lead. With former rival-turned-coach Andy Murray looking on, Djokovic couldn’t turn the tide.
The second set was equally thrilling. Mensik used his agility to counter Djokovic’s deft drop shots, while the Serbian showcased his survival instincts, fending off two break points in the fifth game. Yet, in the deciding tiebreak, Djokovic’s fatigue showed. After a grueling 21-shot rally, he succumbed, giving Mensik the biggest win of his budding career.
“It’s a dream come true,” Mensik said after the match. “Playing against Novak was already special, but winning the title makes it unbelievable.”
