“It feels incredible” – The 19-year-old Czech star Jakub Mensik shared his thoughts after achieving one of the “biggest results” of his career in Miami. Although he has now made it to the SF, he feels his “job is not done” as he is all set to face the world number 4, Taylor Fritz (USA), in his next match. Fritz missed six match points in the QF, but he somehow managed to clinch victory from the jaws of defeat. “I’m still not sure how I’ll approach that match from the return,” said Fritz ahead of the semis. Will he be able to overcome another big server? Let’s have a look at the possibilities.

Taylor Fritz vs Jakub Mensik: Preview

Taylor Fritz’s best record before this tournament was reaching the QF of the Delray Beach Open. In the 2025 Miami Open, he didn’t lose a set before his QF match. The 27-year-old defeated Matteo Berrettini (ITA) in the QF by 7-5,6(7)-7,7-5. Speaking about this hard-fought battle, Fritz revealed, “It was tough. I kept trying to tell myself that he played well and that it was not as much on me, so I tried not to get frustrated.” However, with this win, he has secured his place in his sixth ATP Masters 1000 SF and first in Miami. 

On the other hand, this will be Jakub Mensik’s maiden ATP Masters 1000 SF. He has already secured quite a few impressive victories in this tournament, including his straight-set win against the  2025 Indian Wells champion, Jack Draper, in the R64. Mensik will be entering this match following his 7-6(5),6-1 win against the Frenchman Arthur Fils in the QF.

Fritz vs Mensik: Head-to-Head

Jakub Mensik has faced Taylor Fritz only once in his career so far. Currently, the American star leads the head-to-head record by a 1-0 margin. Can the Czech come up with a surprise in the SF of the 2025 Miami Open?

• 2023 US Open R32: Fritz 6-1,6-2,6-0.

Prediction: Taylor Fritz to win in three sets

Taylor Fritz was one of the standout players in the previous season. He reached the finals of the US Open and ATP Finals last year. Although he didn’t get the start he’d have wanted this season (apart from the United Cup, which was a team event), Fritz has been quite impressive in Miami. Owing to his incredible record on the hard courts, he has a slight edge going into this contest.

Talking about their numbers, Fritz (4) has a win-loss record of 10-5 this season, whereas it’s just around 11-6 for Jakub Mensik (54). So, there is not much to separate the two. Both these players will be keen to reach their first final in this tournament, so this match might be a three-setter.

If we take a look at their playing styles, Mensik is known for his aggressive style of play. His game consists of big serves and big returns. He has already hit 191 aces this season, but apart from his strong serves, Fritz also needs to watch out for Mensik’s precise drop shots. The 19-year-old also has a decent backhand down the line and can mix his shots pretty well.

Conversely, Taylor Fritz is an offensive baseliner. His groundstrokes are powerful and penetrating and can force errors out of his opponents, or outright end points as winners. Apart from that, Fritz also has a strong serve, utilizing a nearly full-western grip on his forehand. Even his court coverage ability and net play are truly exceptional! Fritz has the ability to hit sharp angles cross-court on both sides as well.

Considering these aspects and the fact that Fritz will play in front of the home crowd, it would be a bit tough for Mensik to beat him in this encounter. The prediction is for Fritz to win the match in a three-setter.