
Jakub Mensik is part of that new fearless generation willing to step up in important encounters. Youth is making a big impact at this 2025 Australian Open, a tournament where the Czech defeated Casper Ruud in four sets, once again showcasing his high level at a new Grand Slam. Jakub discussed in a press conference what his first victory over a Top 10 player in an event of this caliber means to him, in addition to talking about his game.
"I feel very good. I knew it would be tough before the match. It's never easy to compete against one of the best on the circuit, especially in Grand Slams, in a best-of-five sets format. I'm pleased with the performance I displayed tonight, happy to have stayed focused and at that level throughout the match. It's not my first time playing a five-set match and Casper isn't that old. When you're more experienced, it's harder to maintain the same level as the younger players. I feel very good physically."
About the new generation
"All the young players competing here, even those not present, strive to reach a high level. For instance, Jannik and Carlos, just a couple of years ago, were teenagers. We aim to bridge the gap and follow in their footsteps, competing against them. I'm able to try to reach that level, to keep improving. It's fantastic to see new faces, different names emerging in tennis. It's a positive development for fans."
Tennis is an individual sport, so you're out there alone. When you see players from your generation or your country progressing, that drives you forward. For me, Tomas (Machac) and Jiri (Lehecka) push me forward, they get better in each tournament, each year. Also, I receive support from the Next Gen like Joao, Alex, and all the others."
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Mensik: "Buscamos la oportunidad de acercarnos a Sinner y Alcaraz"