Nole fell short of a milestone 100th title in Miami final.
NextGen ATP star Jakub Mensik upset his childhood idol and six-time Miami Open champion Novak Djokovic 7-6 (4), 7-6 (4) to win his maiden tour-level title.
The 19-year-old Czech showed exceptional skill and great composure in the key points to win his first ATP title and keep the Serbian ace from winning the elusive 100th tour trophy.
Competing in his 60th Masters 1000 final, Nole was looking to join Jimmy Connors (109) and Roger Federer (103) as the only men in the Open era with 100 or more career titles, but the talented Mensik rose to the occasion to play the match of his life, producing a brilliant serving performance. He was the calmer player under pressure, winning both tie-breaks.
“This is Jakub’s moment — moment of his team, moment of his family. Congratulations, unbelievable tournament,” Djokovic said. “It hurts me to admit it, but you were better! In the clutch moments, you delivered the goods with unbelievable serving and just a phenomenal effort mentally as well to stay tough in a difficult moment.”
Match stats: aces (7-14), double faults (1-1), winners (22-29), unforced errors (17-19), total points won (76-76).
The 24-time Grand Slam titlist will open his clay court season campaign at the Monte-Carlo Rolex Masters (April 6-13) where he’s lifted the championship twice (2013 and 2015).
Last year Casper Ruud stopped Novak in the semi-finals.
Photo: Profimedia
