In Sunday’s Miami Open final, teenage Jakub Menšík stunned 24-time grand slam singles winner Novak Djokovic 7-6(4), 7-6(4), denying the boyhood idol his 100th career title.
In what was by far the most significant event of his brief career, the 19-year-old, who is ranked No. 54 in the world, banged down 14 aces in an incredibly self-assured display of strength and cunning.
In his on-court interview with Djokovic, Menšík remarked, “You are the reason I began playing tennis when I was young.” “Beating you in a tournament final is the hardest thing a tennis player can do.”
“I sincerely appreciate all that you have done for everyone in this sport.”
Menšík will reach a career-high No. 24 in the world after winning his maiden career ATP championship, making him the second-youngest Miami Open winner behind Carlos Alcaraz in 2022.
Amazingly, Menšík almost didn’t play in Miami at all.
Menšík was experiencing knee pain and went to the tournament referee’s office to withdraw from the Miami Open before his first-round matchup with No. 6 seed Jack Draper.
He remarked, “I was fortunate that the referee was eating lunch at the time.”
Instead, Menšík’s knee pain was enough relieved by the physiotherapist’s treatment and the use of painkillers to allow him to play on the court.
After that, he claimed to have “somehow” defeated Draper of Great Britain in two tie-breaks until his knee started to get better every day.
In his on-court interview, Menšík openly acknowledged that Alejandro Resnicoff, an ATP physiotherapist, helped him get fit enough to play.
He remarked, “I came for treatment, and he performed a miracle, and I stepped onto the court because of him.” “And I’m standing here because of him.”
Menšík’s stunning run to the title also included wins over No. 3 seed Taylor Fritz and No. 17 seed Arthur Fils.
For Djokovic, the wait to join Roger Federer and Jimmy Connors as the only men to win 100 titles in the Open Era goes on.
The 37-year-old appeared to be experiencing discomfort with his right eye during the match, applying drops during changeovers.
Despite the disappointment of defeat, however, Djokovic will surely be pleased with his significant improvements in Miami after coming into the tournament with a 7-4 record to start the season.
“Jakub’s moment has arrived,” Djokovic declared. “The time spent with his family and his team.” Bravo, fantastic competition. The first of many.
“I hate to say it, but you were superior. You came through when it mattered most. Amazing service and simply an incredible mental effort to remain strong during the challenging times.
“This is a fantastic feature for a young player like you, and I have no doubt that you will use it a lot in the years to come.”
