By GB News (World News) | Created at 2025-03-31 08:11:04 | Updated at 2025-04-02 00:46:02
1 day ago
Novak Djokovic has admitted he didn't feel 'quite right' as he lost to Jakub Mensik in the final of the Miami Open in the early hours of Monday morning.
The Serb had gone into the showdown hoping to win a 100th pro title off his career, a feat only Roger Federer and Jimmy Connors have done in the past.
Yet that didn't happen, with Djokovic stunned as Mensik won 7-6 (7-4), 7-6 (7-4) to secure glory.
After the match, speaking on the court, the former world No 1 showed class by congratulating his opponent.
Novak Djokovic has admitted he didn't feel 'quite right' as he lost to Jakub Mensik in the final of the Miami Open in the early hours of Monday morning
REUTERS
“I don’t want to talk too much," said the 37-year-old.
“This is Jakub’s moment and a moment for his team and family. Congratulations.
"Unbelievable tournament. First of many. It hurts me to admit it but you were better. In the clutch moments you delivered the goods. Unbelievable serving.
“Just a phenomenal effort mentally to stay in the difficult moments.
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"For a young player like yourself this is a great feature. Something you’ll use many times in the years to follow.
"I wish you the best of luck. Maybe you’ll let me win one of the next times we play.”
During the showdown, Djokovic appeared to struggle with his eye.
In his post-match press conference, the 24-time Grand Slam winner admitted he didn't feel 'quite right' - while continuing to praise Mensik for his victory.
"There is nothing that can detract from Mensik's victory, so I prefer not to talk about certain things... I don't want it to seem like I am justifying my defeat – it is the same for both players, and you have to accept all circumstances.
“I leave with a sour taste for losing the final, but I have regained good feelings both on and off the court.
"I am very grateful for the support received and have enjoyed the experience, besides playing well all week, except for today.”
As for Mensik, the 19-year-old was overwhelmed after his win.
Jakub Mensik was too strong for Novak Djokovic in the final of the Miami Open
REUTERS
He told Djokovic: “When I was young I started to play tennis because of you.
“There is no harder task in tennis than to beat him in the finals. But of course I felt really great and it’s my time, so I just tried to focus on the match like I did before in previous rounds.”
