Novak Djokovic was prevented from winning his 100th career title by a teenage player who almost didn`t compete because the referee was at lunch.
Djokovic, 37, aimed to join Roger Federer and Jimmy Connors as the only men with 100 or more trophies.
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He also hoped to become the oldest man to win a Masters title, facing young Jakub Mensik in the Miami Open final.
However, a tired-looking Djokovic lost to the 19-year-old Czech player Mensik in straight sets 7-6, 7-6 at the Hard Rock Stadium.
This was Mensik`s first ATP Tour title, making him the first player in 24 years to win their first title at a Masters event, and it propelled him from world No. 54 to No. 24 in the rankings.
Interestingly, Mensik almost withdrew from the tournament before his first match against Roberto Bautista Agut in the first round.
After receiving his trophy for defeating his childhood idol, Mensik thanked one of the ATP physiotherapists, Alejandro.
He explained that he was about to withdraw due to severe knee pain just an hour before his first match.
Mensik said he was fortunate that the referee was at lunch, which allowed him to receive last-minute treatment from Alejandro, who he credited with a “miracle” that enabled him to play.
Mensik also mentioned that he started playing tennis because of Djokovic.
He acknowledged the difficulty of beating Djokovic in a final but felt it was his moment and focused on the match as he had in previous rounds.
Mensik, who was unseeded, defeated Jack Draper in the second round and continued through the tournament to face Djokovic in the final, which had been delayed due to storms in Florida.
Djokovic was seen with a swollen eye during practice in Miami before the match and used eye drops before and during the game. He appeared to lack energy as he missed the opportunity to secure his first tournament win since the Olympics.
Despite the loss, Djokovic praised Mensik in his runner-up speech, saying it was an “unbelievable tournament” and “the first of many” titles for the young player.
Djokovic admitted that Mensik was the better player, especially in crucial moments, highlighting Mensik`s phenomenal serving and mental strength.
Djokovic wished Mensik good luck and jokingly hoped to win against him in their future matches.
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Credit: Getty
