Teen Sensation Mensik Stuns Ruud at Australian Open as Djokovic Marches On
Sixth-seeded Ruud falls to rising Czech star in latest upset, while Djokovic sets another Grand Slam record.
Czech teenager Jakub Mensik delivered a seismic shock at the Australian Open, knocking out three-time Grand Slam finalist Casper Ruud in four sets on Wednesday. The 19-year-old overpowered the sixth-seeded Norwegian 6-2, 3-6, 6-1, 6-4, securing the biggest win of his young career and sending a warning to the sport’s top stars: “New blood is coming.”
Ruud’s exit continues a wave of youthful dominance at this year’s tournament, following 18-year-old Joao Fonseca’s victory over ninth seed Andrey Rublev on Tuesday. This marks the first time since 2006 that two teenagers have defeated top-10 players at a Grand Slam—when Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray achieved the feat at Wimbledon.
Mensik, currently ranked 48th, embraced the significance of the moment.
“It’s great that there is always new blood. Tennis is evolving, and new names are emerging,” he said. “For the fans and for the sport, it’s exciting. New blood is coming!”
Djokovic Breaks Another Record
Meanwhile, defending champion Novak Djokovic had to battle against spirited Portuguese qualifier Jaime Faria before advancing to the third round. The 10-time Australian Open winner claimed a 6-1, 6-7 (4/7), 6-3, 6-2 victory under the lights at Rod Laver Arena, setting up a clash with Czech 26th seed Tomas Machac.
Djokovic’s win was his 430th Grand Slam singles match, surpassing Roger Federer (429) to hold the record for the most matches played in a major—men’s or women’s—during the Open Era. Serena Williams sits third with 423.
“I love this sport, I love competition,” Djokovic said. “For over 20 years, I’ve given my all at the highest level in Grand Slams. Win or lose, I always leave my heart on the court. Grand Slam matches and wins matter the most in our sport, and I feel blessed to set another record.”
Zverev Cruises, Gauff Overcomes Early Scare
World number two Alexander Zverev had a much smoother path to the third round, dismantling Spain’s Pedro Martinez 6-1, 6-4, 6-1 in under two hours.
In the women’s draw, third-seeded Coco Gauff faced a tough test against Britain’s Jodie Burrage but battled back from 5-3 down in the second set to seal a 6-3, 7-5 victory.
As the Australian Open progresses, the mix of rising stars and established champions promises an exciting road ahead in Melbourne.