By Chris Oddo | @TheFanChild | Saturday, March 29, 2025
Jakub Mensik delivered a stunning performance, unleashing 25 aces in his three-set triumph over Taylor Fritz. This victory positions Mensik as the third youngest player to clinch a spot in the Miami Open men’s singles final. Following the match, Fritz acknowledged the significant growth in the young Czech’s game since their last encounter at the 2023 US Open.
“He’s truly impressive,” Fritz remarked after the nail-biting match ended 7-6(4), 4-6, 7-6(4). “The last time we faced off was on his 18th birthday at the US Open, and he’s definitely evolved since then. It’s clear that he’s progressed in every facet of his game. At his age, that’s to be expected.”
Fritz struggled to capitalize on Mensik’s serve, managing to break once in the middle set, but that was all he could muster against the relentless teenager.
“His serve has seen a remarkable transformation,” Fritz noted. “When we met at the US Open in ‘23, he had power but lacked precision. Now, he’s placing it exceptionally well, making it tough for me to read.”
Fritz emphasized that Mensik’s sharp serve placement was particularly challenging, and he contemplated a change in strategy. “Today, his spot serving was extraordinary,” he said. “I really should have taken more risks and guessed on a side instead of relying on my reach and reaction as I usually do. It felt like he either landed it right on the line or missed it by mere inches.”
