Jakub Mensik reveals the surprising reason behind his Miami Open final run: ‘Messi was the key’

Jakub Mensik, a rising Czech talent currently ranked No. 54 in the ATP rankings, solidified his status as the breakout star of the Miami Open. The 19-year-old clinched a thrilling semifinal victory over Taylor Fritz, winning 7-6, 4-6, 7-6, to book his spot in the tournament’s final against his childhood idol, Novak Djokovic.

The semifinal match occurred on a special day for the tournament, as Lionel Messi and his family attended to enjoy the tennis action. The soccer legend, now living in Miami, proved to be an unexpected source of inspiration for Mensik.

Before his match, Mensik took the opportunity to snap a photo with Messi, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest soccer players of all time. After the match, Mensik humorously admitted that his interaction with the Argentine icon played a pivotal role in his performance.

“Meeting this legend, not even a human, it’s not happening every day. I shook his hand. I was relaxing with him for a while, so I didn’t wash my hand before stepping onto the court. Messi was the key today,” Mensik joked during his post-match interview. The young star now faces Djokovic in the final.

Lionel Messi during the Miami Open semifinal match between Novak Djokovic and Grigor Dimitrov. (Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)

Mensik anticipates final showdown with Djokovic

Sunday’s final marks Mensik’s first Masters 1000 final and his chance to claim his maiden ATP title. While it’s a milestone moment, it won’t be the first time he faces the 24-time Grand Slam champion. The two previously met in October 2024 at the Shanghai Masters, where Djokovic secured a 2-1 victory.

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“I am a completely different player from that match,” Mensik said of their 2024 encounter. “I remember being very nervous when I stepped onto the court because I wasn’t mentally mature”.

While nerves may creep in on Sunday, Mensik is confident in his ability to manage them better this time. “I don’t doubt I will feel nerves on Sunday, but I believe I will handle them much better,” he added. “Back then, I went out to enjoy the experience, but now I am here to win”.

Mensik reflects on his rapid development

Over the past year, Mensik has made remarkable strides in his game. The Czech teenager credits his ability to thrive under pressure as a key factor in his success, as demonstrated by his composure in winning two tight tiebreaks against Fritz in the semifinals.

“I believe one of my greatest virtues is how I handle pressure moments in matches. I can stay calm, focused, and play my best tennis. That’s why I’m winning so many tiebreaks this year,” Mensik noted. “Now I understand how the circuit works, I have confidence in my abilities, and I feel that I am becoming a better tennis player every day”.