Men's champ Jakub Mensik back for ASB Classic 27
One of the world’s most exciting men's tennis players, Jakub Mensik, will defend his title at the ASB Classic in Auckland in the New Year.
The Czech star, who just turned 21 years old, is ranked at No 15 in the world, and became the youngest ASB Classic men’s winner since Juan-Martin del Potro in 2009 with his win earlier this year.
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“I am happy to be coming back to the ASB Classic in January. I have great memories of Auckland after winning the title last year,” said Mensik.
“It’s a tournament where I enjoy playing. I am looking forward to being back and see everyone again and start the new season there.”
Mensik has been as high as No 12 after his win at the ASB Classic and fourth round at the Australian Open
The 196cm tall star, rated as one of the cleanest ball-strikers in the game, followed his win in Auckland by making the fourth round at the Australian Open where he lost to Djokovic; the semifinals in Doha and Roland Garros, the quarterfinals in Montreal and the third round at the US Open.
Mensik made his name as a teenager when he won the Miami Masters 1000 last year, beating the likes of Arthur Fils, Taylor Fritz and Djokovic on the way to becoming the second youngest winner of that tournament.
His second ATP tournament title was at the ASB Classic in Auckland – a special experience that he enjoyed.
“It is how close you are to the spectators. You can feel the fans right next to the court, see them enjoy the tennis which creates a really special atmosphere,” said Mensik. “There’s a great connection between the players and the fans. I really enjoyed that – and makes the ASB Classic very personal and different from a lot of other tournaments on Tour.”
Mensik also enjoyed the vibe of Auckland, both the place and the people.
“I like the lifestyle there. It is a beautiful city – there are so many nice places to see. New Zealand has a very special feeling – people are very friendly. For a tennis player it is a great environment to get ready for the season and build some confidence before the Australian Open.”
ASB Classic Tournament Director, Nicolas Lamperin now has both of this year’s winners in Jakub Mensik and Elina Svitolina returning to defend their titles.
The WTA Women’s ASB Classic runs from 4 to10 January 2027, followed by the ATP Men’s ASB Classic from 11-16 January, both at the Manuka Doctor Arena in downtown Auckland.
