Jakub Mensik Credits Lionel Messi for Miami Open Victory

Czech teenager Jakub Mensik achieved a surprise victory over Taylor Fritz at the Miami Open, attributing his success to a special meeting with football legend Lionel Messi. The 19-year-old, who did not wash his hand after shaking Messi's hand for luck, won the match in a thrilling three-set tiebreak, securing his first Masters 1000 final. Mensik expressed his excitement about meeting Messi, emphasizing that it was a dream come true and that the soccer star's presence inspired him. He will face Novak Djokovic in the final, where both players will be vying for significant milestones—Djokovic aiming for his 100th ATP title while Mensik seeks his first. Mensik's confidence has grown since their last encounter, as he believes he has matured as a player. After the match, he shared his gratitude by writing “Thank you Leo” on the camera lens.