Novak Djokovic admits to Jakub Mensik: It hurts to say, but you're better right now

He did everything he could, but he didn't succeed. Novak Djokovic ran out of strength, Jakub Menšik's serves were stronger than the skills of the best in history, so Novak will have to wait a little longer for the 100th title in his career, but there is no doubt that the Serb is close to it.

During the cup award ceremony, Djokovic was full of words of praise for Menšik. The Serbian tennis player admitted that the Czech is better than him. Although he is only 19 years old, the young tennis player has impressed the public, and has given indications that he could belong to the very top of the tennis world in the future.

"I don't want to talk much. This is Jakub's moment. Congratulations. It hurts me to admit it, but right now you are better. You remained good in difficult times and that is something you will do many more times in the years to come. I wish you all the best. I congratulate your team, family. All the best. I want to thank the fans. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I have not been here for six years. The feeling of playing here, in front of this pub is... Incredible. Not only today, but always. I really appreciate your support. I love you all and I hope we'll see each other again," Djokovic said.

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The young tennis player looked emotional, having words of praise for the experienced Serbian, saying that he admired him from a young age. Playing in the final of the tournament against such an opponent is a moment the Czech will never forget.

"Novak, you are the reason I am here. I have admired you since I was little... I had the opportunity to train with you and play against you in Shanghai, but now in the final of the tournament... Thank you so much. for everything, you are an extraordinary person and I have said it so many times... A big thank you to my team. To all the fans at home. Thank you for your support. Thank you for everything, this is just the first trophy of many to come. Thank you to the fans here, you have been great throughout the tournament. Czech fans too, I see a lot of flags. Both those watching on TV and those of you who are here. Thank you," said Menšík.

It is impressive that the young tennis player was so keen to withdraw from the tournament, but..

"An hour before the start of the first round I wanted to give up. I even signed a paper to say I was giving up, but, luckily, the referee was at lunch. After that, the physiotherapist did a miracle," explained the 19-year-old Czech.