Novak Djokovic advanced to the Australian Open quarter-finals in Melbourne on Sunday after his scheduled fourth-round opponent Jakub Mensik withdrew with an abdominal injury a day before their match at Melbourne Park.
Mensik, the 16th seed, had come through a demanding third-round contest on Saturday, beating American Ethan Quinn 6-2 7-6(5) 7-6(5). The 20-year-old Czech later confirmed he had been managing an abdominal issue that worsened over recent matches and ultimately forced him out of the tournament.
“This is a tough one to write,” Mensik said on Instagram. “After doing everything we could to keep going, I have to withdraw from the Australian Open due to an abdominal muscle injury that has progressed over the last matches. Now, it’s time to recover properly.”
Despite the disappointment, Mensik reflected positively on his run in Melbourne, where he reached the fourth round for the first time.
“Even though I’m disappointed, making the fourth round here for the first time is something I will carry with me for a long time,” he said. “I felt so much energy from the fans and the atmosphere in Melbourne was truly special.”
The withdrawal ends what would have been a high-profile meeting between the young Czech and his childhood idol. Mensik defeated Djokovic in last year’s Miami Open final, and the Serb has previously offered guidance to the rising talent.
“The fact that my match was to be against Novak on Rod Laver Arena makes it even more difficult,” Mensik said. “I’m super sad not to step onto the court and to compete against my idol and the G.O.A.T.”
Djokovic, the fourth seed and 10-time Australian Open champion, continues his pursuit of a record-extending title in Melbourne and a 25th Grand Slam crown, which would move him clear of the mark he currently shares with Margaret Court.
He will face either American Taylor Fritz or Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti in the quarter-finals, with a potential semi-final against defending champion Jannik Sinner looming.
