Jakub Mensik is on cloud nine currently. The 18-year-old tennis sensation is living his dream at the ongoing Qatar Open. Mensik has made it to the summit clash of the tournament, his maiden appearance at the finals on the ATP Tour. What’s more, he did so by defeating Gael Monfils, a player who is almost 20 years senior to him. Time and again, Mensik has talked highly about the likes of Monfils and Novak Djokovic. However, he once revealed who his actual idol is.

Over the years, the legendary duo of Monfils and Djokovic have inspired many young players to take up the sport. Jakub Mensik is one among them as he grew up watching the two. Let’s find out what he had to say about them.

Jakub Mensik felt that Gael Monfils is ‘one of the biggest showman on court’

Yesterday, Mensik knocked Monfils out in Doha in the last-four clash. Subsequently, in the post-match interview, he had kind words for him. Mensik revealed, “When he was in the final here 19 years ago I wasn’t born yet. I told him when I was young I watched him a lot on tv. One of the biggest showman on court. Great guy. Hopefully in the future we will meet once again. Sometimes the rallies were so fun. He’s such a good guy. Best of luck for him for the next tournament.”

Additionally, Mensik also mentioned that Monfils was one of his biggest inspirations during his childhood. He also watched the Frenchman play on television and thanked him for putting on a great show during their clash.

However, according to Mensik’s recent revelations, Novak Djokovic is his idol, and not Monfils. During another interview a few days ago, Mensik said, “My tennis inspiration is Novak Djokovic. Because of him, I started playing tennis. He is my biggest idol.”

A few years ago, Mensik made his dreams come true as he met his idol, Djokovic, in his hometown. The two hit out on the tennis court, with Mensik revealing, “When the dreams come true. Thank you for all my friends.#noleteam #nole #djokernole #novaktenniscenter”

With all the attention on him, Mensik will look to continue his giant-killing run when he takes on Karen Khachanov in the summit clash at the Qatar Open. Their match will take place later today. Who do you think will come out on top in this upcoming match?