Mensik: "I do not put pressure on myself, I just try to focus on myself"

Iker Jiménez | 18 Mar 2026 | 08.45

Mensik: "I don't put pressure on myself, I just try to focus on myself." Source: Getty

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Jakub Mensik returns to the Miami Open as a reality of the circuit after starring in one of the most surprising stories of the tournament in 2025. The Czech player, then ranked outside the top 50, claimed the title by defeating several of the best players in the world, culminating his feat with a victory over Novak Djokovic in the final.

One year later, now established among the elite and as the defending champion, Mensik comes back to Miami with a completely different status. However, his speech during the tournament's Media Day makes it clear that his mindset hasn't changed. Focused on the present, without added pressure, and with the ambition intact to continue growing on the circuit.

A title that changed his career

The triumph in Miami in 2025 not only gave him his first Masters 1000 title but also transformed his career. Since then, Mensik has taken significant steps in the circuit, establishing himself among the best and adding prestigious victories. The player himself is aware of the magnitude of what he achieved: "Last year was an incredible experience, an incredible result, and probably the major turning point in my career. Many things changed at that moment. A year later, coming back here brings back great memories, gives me goosebumps, and I am very happy to be back," he commented.

However, the 20-year-old Czech does not want to dwell on what he accomplished twelve months ago. "Last year is already past. I am focused on what is coming this week. I return here feeling very good to prepare for the tournament. I will enjoy every moment on the court like last year," he noted.

No added pressure in defending the crown

Defending a title, especially a Masters 1000, can be a significant burden, but Mensik prefers to downplay it. "I am not trying to put pressure on myself, not even from what comes externally, the media or people talking about it. I just try to focus on myself. It's something new, but it's also something that excites me a lot and that I want to experience in my career in the future," he calmly explained. "Last year's final was a dream come true, and many things changed. Every player who wants to be at the top or win these big titles has to go through these experiences."

If there is one thing Mensik conveys, it is self-assurance. When asked if his recent results, such as the victory over Jannik Sinner in Doha, have given him confidence, his response left no doubt: "I am confident all the time." Mensik concluded with a reflection that perfectly summarizes his competitive mindset. "For me, it's not a responsibility but something very important. It's not just about going out on the court and playing tennis... because ultimately there is always another tournament, another weekend, for which you have to be prepared."

A philosophy that explains why, after his breakthrough last year, the Czech player does not want to settle. His story in Miami is already written, but his ambition clearly points to it not being the last great chapter.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Mensik: "No me pongo presión, solo intento centrarme en mí mismo"

Jakub Mensik