My influences: Jakub Mensik looks to Jannik Sinner for inspiration | ATP Tour
next generation impact
My influences: Mensik looks to Sinner for inspiration
Czechs discuss Italy ahead of NextGen ATP Finals hosted by PIF
December 15, 2024
Small in stature but powerful in game, Jannik Sinner conquered the tennis world in 2024, winning two Grand Slam titles and becoming the first person to rise to No. 1 in the PIF ATP Rankings of Italians.
#NextGenATP Czech Jakub Mensik has been a long-time admirer of Sinner, and the slender 19-year-old, who stands 6 feet 4 inches tall, hopes he can compete in the former Next Gen ATP Finals, where the PIF champions are presented.
As part of the Next Generation Impact series, Mensik discussed Sinner’s game, his relationship with Czech legend Tomas Berdych and more in an interview with ATPTour.com.
Which former Next Generation ATP Finals hosted by PIF champions do you most identify with?
A new generation is coming. Sinner, Alcaraz and all these young players, I see them getting to this level when I’m practicing or trying to get on the ATP Tour, and it’s helpful to see that. The game is always evolving, and all the former next-gen players, myself, and other young players are bringing new things to the table.
I like sinners. For a tall player like me, he still moves well. I think it’s similar to me because I’m already tall and move around the court well. My technique and style are similar to Janik’s on the forehand. I can’t be like Alcaraz because he’s smaller and stronger. I’m the skinny guy and when you see a lot of tall guys now, they have big serves and big arms. My serve is also a really big weapon.
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Which former Next Gen champion was your favorite to watch growing up?
All of this is because when you see the next generation finals, it’s a big deal. I think a lot of past champions have risen to the top of the ATP Tour. i think janik [Sinner] One of the first winners, he was the same age as me when he competed, he competed at the same level as me when he competed, and now he is the best player in the world. It’s great to see new players trying to bring something fresh to tennis.
Who has influenced you the most?
In my hometown, Tomas Berdych was practicing all the time and when I started playing tennis he was at his best, so I started because of him. I watched him when I was at home. Then we had the Big Three at the time, and my favorite was Novak [Djokovic]. He is my idol.
Do you remember the first time you met Djokovic?
I think I play juniors at the 2021 U.S. Open. When I came to training he was walking to work out so I watched him for 10 minutes and it was an unforgettable memory because I started training mostly because of Tomas Berdych, but Novak too because he was me idol. I saw him on TV and it was amazing the first time I met him.
What did you learn on tour last year?
This is more than just a win. My motto is, we don’t lose. I knew from the start that the Tour would be very difficult. Every day, every week, you’re basically going to lose because at the end of the tournament, there can only be one winner, one champion, and that’s always the case. It’s very difficult to stay in the championship week after week. This is what it means to trust the process. Work hard every day and do your best and one day you will be a champion.
How much influence did your parents have on you?
I have to say, from the beginning of my career, when I started playing tennis, it was always me and my dad. I wouldn’t be here without my parents because they really support me. I’m really glad I have them. This was my first coach, my first tennis coach, who really showed me what tennis was. How to play, he basically showed me how to fall in love with tennis. Now my current coach, I wouldn’t be here without him. If it’s family, coaches, my team, physical therapy, strength and conditioning, everybody, we have a great spirit. This is the key to relaxing and playing your best tennis.
What qualities do you look for when you bring people on to your team?
They need to push me forward. Because every time we visit these places, they say, “Look, you’re here.” Obviously they have to push me forward to help me achieve my goals.
