Jakub Mensik withdraws from Australian Open

Jakub Mensik has withdrawn from the Australian Open due to an abdominal muscle injury, sending Novak Djokovic through to the quarterfinals.

Mensik confirmed the decision in a statement shared on Instagram, explaining that the injury worsened over the course of his recent matches.

“This is a tough one to write,” Mensik said. “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. After long discussions with my team and doctors, we decided not to step on court tomorrow.”

Despite the disappointment, the 18-year-old reflected positively on his run in Melbourne, where he reached the fourth round of a Grand Slam 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.”

Mensik also thanked his team and supporters before turning his focus to recovery.

“Thank you to my team for being with me every step, and to everyone sending messages and cheering — it means more than you know. Now it’s time to recover properly.”

Djokovic advances without playing and moves into the quarterfinals as the tournament continues.