Jakub Mensik wants to grab the spotlight again. After gaining recognition in the tennis world by winning his first title at the Miami Open at 19 years old against Novak Djokovic, followed by unrealistic expectations he didn't meet, the Czech player aims for 2026 to be the year he transitions from a promise to reality. His recent victory with great gameplay over Jannik Sinner in the quarterfinals of the ATP Doha (7-6(3), 2-6, 6-3) shows he is on the right track.
The Czech player displayed the same tennis that brought him fame eleven months ago in Florida. An unstoppable serve, a powerful forehand, and solid defense. This was the only way to outplay Jannik Sinner, who seemed uncomfortable from the start, rushed, and made unforced errors unusual for him.
Although the Italian didn't perform at his best and shows he has started 2026 on the wrong foot, Mensik's flawless game, even after losing the second set, where his energy seemed to wane, remained as sharp and confident in the third as in the first, ultimately overwhelming the world number two, who surrendered in their first encounter.
Despite his success, Mensik hasn't won anything yet and will face Arthur Fils in less than 24 hours for a spot in the Saturday final, where Carlos Alcaraz might be waiting. Therefore, the Czech player aimed to stay grounded in his on-court interview while also acknowledging his achievement against Fils.

Jakub Mensik proud of his significant victory over Jannik Sinner in Doha
Before the match, I knew about Jannik's qualities. He's a great guy. A great champion. What he has achieved in his young career is impressive. I knew it would be tough. Yet, even with that in mind, I came to this match to win it, with a winning mentality.
I served quite well, even when conditions worsened during the night. It was a tough mental battle. After the second set, when my energy dropped a bit, I managed to recover after a bathroom break. From the beginning of the third set, I served well again, so I'm satisfied with my performance today.
He will seek to reproduce his exceptional tennis in the semifinals against Fils.
It's a great victory that will surely have a significant impact in my country, but tomorrow are the semifinals, and I need to stay focused as the tournament continues. I'll try to recover as best as I can. It's time to celebrate the victory a bit, but then I'll go to sleep, follow the same routine tomorrow, and hope to deliver the same level,” concludes Jakub Mensik, who not only surprised by defeating Jannik Sinner but also sends a clear message to the circuit. Here stands the promise once again, ready to become a reality.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Mensik, tras vencer a Sinner en Doha: "Llegué a este partido para ganarlo"

