In a dramatic turn at the Australian Open, young gun Jakub Mensik’s tournament came to an abrupt end with an abdominal injury withdrawal, gifting Novak Djokovic an easy passage to the quarterfinals. The Serbian maestro, chasing his 25th Grand Slam trophy, couldn’t have asked for a smoother ride into the last eight.
The Czech teenager, fresh off a career-high surge to ATP No. 16, fought valiantly but the pain proved too much. His Instagram post laid bare the agony: extensive talks with his team led to the call that he wouldn’t face Djokovic. The injury flared up during prior rounds, forcing the tough choice to prioritize long-term health.
Mensik took a moment to savor his breakthrough. ‘Disappointed, yes, but hitting the fourth round for the first time is a memory I’ll hold dear,’ he wrote. The electric Melbourne atmosphere fueled him, and he extended gratitude to supporters worldwide. Recovery now tops his agenda as he bids adieu to the slams for the moment.
Djokovic, the undisputed king of Melbourne with 10 crowns, notched his 16th quarterfinal berth here effortlessly. His ongoing set-winning streak at the venue is legendary, and this walkover adds to his 102 match triumphs, equaling Federer’s men’s record. Post his last win over Botik van de Zandschulp, Djokovic’s aura of invincibility grows stronger.
Monday brings a blockbuster: Djokovic versus the victor from Musetti-Fritz. Fans recall Mensik’s Miami triumph over Djokovic last year for his maiden Masters 1000, but with the Czech sidelined, the Serb eyes another deep run. At 38, Djokovic’s quest for greatness shows no signs of slowing, positioning him as the favorite to lift the trophy yet again.