Gael Monfils or Novak Djokovic: Who Is Jakub Mensik’s Childhood Idol?
Follow Us
Jakub Mensik is on cloud nine currently. The 18-year-old tennis sensation is living his dream at the ongoing Qatar Open. Mensik has made it to the summit clash of the tournament, his maiden appearance at the finals on the ATP Tour. What’s more, he did so by defeating Gael Monfils, a player who is almost 20 years senior to him. Time and again, Mensik has talked highly about the likes of Monfils and Novak Djokovic. However, he once revealed who his actual idol is.
Over the years, the legendary duo of Monfils and Djokovic have inspired many young players to take up the sport. Jakub Mensik is one among them as he grew up watching the two. Let’s find out what he had to say about them.
Jakub Mensik felt that Gael Monfils is ‘one of the biggest showman on court’
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Yesterday, Mensik knocked Monfils out in Doha in the last-four clash. Subsequently, in the post-match interview, he had kind words for him. Mensik revealed, “When he was in the final here 19 years ago I wasn’t born yet. I told him when I was young I watched him a lot on tv. One of the biggest showman on court. Great guy. Hopefully in the future we will meet once again. Sometimes the rallies were so fun. He’s such a good guy. Best of luck for him for the next tournament.”
Mensik had kind words for Gael Monfils after beating him in Doha
“19 years ago, Gael was you. 18 years old on this court and knocked out his first top 10 talent. You had a nice exchange at the net. What did you say?”
Jakub: “When he was in the final here 19 years ago I wasn’t… pic.twitter.com/dbXpZ8nO4J
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) February 23, 2024
Additionally, Mensik also mentioned that Monfils was one of his biggest inspirations during his childhood. He also watched the Frenchman play on television and thanked him for putting on a great show during their clash.
Trending
Coco Gauff Drops Adorable Wish to Celebrate Boyfriend’s Birthday Amid Hectic Madrid Open Stint
April 27, 2024 03:00 PM EDT
‘Have a Little More Respect’- Danielle Collins Lashes Out at Noisy Fan in Novak Djokovic-Style as Heated Scenes Erupt at Madrid Open
April 28, 2024 07:37 PM EDT
‘RIP’ – Heartbroken Brother of John McEnroe Mourns ESPN Legend’s Tragic Death Who Last Tweeted About Coco Gauff
April 21, 2024 02:43 PM EDT
Madrid Open: Tennis Fans Caught Aryna Sabalenka’s New Boyfriend. Here’s Everything You Need to Know about This Brazilian Businessman
April 27, 2024 11:09 AM EDT
Madrid Open: Who Is Danielle Collins’ Next Opponent? Everything to Know About the 25-YO Romanian WTA Star
April 28, 2024 09:59 AM EDT
Get instantly notified of the hottest Tennis stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.
Follow Us
Ahead of US Open Clash Against Taylor Fritz, 18YO Czech Tennis Prodigy’s Coach Details Novak Djokovic’s Incredible Impact on the Youngster
However, according to Mensik’s recent revelations, Novak Djokovic is his idol, and not Monfils. During another interview a few days ago, Mensik said, “My tennis inspiration is Novak Djokovic. Because of him, I started playing tennis. He is my biggest idol.”
Pay attention to the name 📢
It’s time to get to know Jakub Mensik 🙌 pic.twitter.com/EmgeTBupcx
— ATP Tour (@atptour) February 22, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
A few years ago, Mensik made his dreams come true as he met his idol, Djokovic, in his hometown. The two hit out on the tennis court, with Mensik revealing, “When the dreams come true. Thank you for all my friends.#noleteam #nole #djokernole #novaktenniscenter”
View this post on Instagram
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
With all the attention on him, Mensik will look to continue his giant-killing run when he takes on Karen Khachanov in the summit clash at the Qatar Open. Their match will take place later today. Who do you think will come out on top in this upcoming match?
‘Had to Fight Through’ – Novak Djokovic’s Biggest Upside Over Rivals Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer Detailed by Indian Tennis Legend
Edited by:
Shudh Mukherjee