Jakub Mensik has withdrawn from the Australian Open with an abdominal muscle injury, handing Novak Djokovic a walkover into the quarter-finals. The 20-year-old Czech reached the fourth round for the first time but cited health risks after his injury worsened. Djokovic advances without playing, continuing his pursuit of a record 25th major title.
In a disappointing turn at the Australian Open in Melbourne, 16th-seeded Jakub Mensik announced his withdrawal from the fourth-round match against Novak Djokovic on Sunday, January 25, 2026. The 20-year-old Czech player cited an abdominal muscle injury on his left side that had progressed over recent matches, making it too risky to compete on Monday at Rod Laver Arena.
Mensik, who was set for a potential rematch of the 2025 Miami Open final he won against Djokovic, had impressed in his run to the last 16. He battled past former top-10 player Pablo Carreno Busta in five sets in the first round, then defeated Rafael Jodar and Ethan Quinn in straight sets. His third-round victory over Quinn came 6-2, 7-6(5), 7-6(5) on Saturday, marking his first Grand Slam fourth-round appearance.
"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," Mensik said on Instagram. "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. I felt so much energy from the fans and the atmosphere in Melbourne was truly special."
Mensik added that after discussions with his team and doctors, he prioritized recovery to avoid long-term risks. This marks the second abdominal injury withdrawal in as many days, following Naomi Osaka's exit on Saturday.
The walkover benefits 38-year-old Djokovic, the 10-time Australian Open champion and 24-time major winner, who recently reached 400 Grand Slam wins with his third-round victory over Botic van de Zandschulp. Djokovic, yet to drop a set in the tournament, will face either fifth seed Lorenzo Musetti or ninth seed Taylor Fritz in the quarter-finals. He aims to end the recent dominance of younger stars like Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, having equaled records with his 21st Australian Open and 100th win at Melbourne Park.
Experts noted the severity of abdominal injuries. "It's very early in the season to have a very serious abdominal injury, which can be notoriously difficult to get through," said Jamie Murray. Tim Henman added, "If you've got that tear, it's really sad for him. He's a properly good player and he will be back."
