The clay-court swing officially begins this week in Monte Carlo, where the ATP Tour’s biggest stars have gathered for the first major title on the surface. Notably absent, however, will be Miami Open champion Jakub Mensik.
The 19-year-old Czech withdrew from the Monte Carlo Masters after a taxing run in Miami, in which he suffered from a knee issue. Mensik later revealed that he had considered pulling out of the tournament before the final, but credited his physiotherapist (and a bit of luck) for keeping him on court. He went on to capture his first Masters 1000 title, defeating Novak Djokovic in straight sets.
Because Monte Carlo is a non-mandatory event and Mensik would have needed to play qualifying rounds to reach the main draw, he has opted to prioritize recovery. Instead, he will resume his schedule at the ATP 500 event in Munich, which starts on April 14th.
With his breakthrough in Miami, Mensik became the fifth-youngest champion at the Masters 1000 level, joining an elite group that includes Michael Chang, Rafael Nadal, Carlos Alcaraz, and Holger Rune.
A changing of the guard?
Monte Carlo could continue a trend that has defined the early part of the 2025 season: the rise of the next generation. Jannik Sinner is not expected to return until May, and established names like Alcaraz and others in the Top 10 have struggled to advance deep into tournaments.
In Houston, Jenson Brooksby captured his first ATP title by beating Frances Tiafoe in the final, adding to the growing list of young players breaking through. Following Jack Draper’s triumph at Indian Wells and Mensik’s run in Miami, Monte Carlo could be set for yet another first-time Masters 1000 winner.
That said, Novak Djokovic, who came without new coach Andy Murray, remains a threat. Despite falling short in Miami, the 24-time Grand Slam champion had a positive week and will be eyeing his 100th career title in Monaco.