Jakub Mensik, João Fonseca’s next rival, has a “mental trainer” on his team. If the Brazilian, with each round that advances, repeats Gustavo Kuerten’s feat, the Czech tennis player has also been breaking taboos for his country.
It had been ten years since a tennis player from the Czech Republic had reached the quarterfinals of a Grand Slam. And 16 years since a compatriot, Thomas Berdych, was a semi-finalist in a tournament of this level. But this fast, just like for the Rio native, does not seem to put pressure on Mensik, 20 years old.
After beating Russian Andrei Rublev in the round of 16 by 3 sets to 2, on Sunday (31), the Czech made a point of thanking his parents, his girlfriend, his coach and two of his trainers: physical and mental.
“Although five-set matches used to be difficult for me, now I’m fine and I see improvements in myself,” said Mensik, who, like the Brazilian, also faced two five-set matches at Roland Garros.
“We are doing great physical conditioning work with coach Honza Pospisil, so I am physically prepared. Mentality is also a significant component. I am happy that thanks to the collaboration with mental coach Dragan [Vujovic]I can use the experience of less successful moments and I am evolving in this area,” Mensik told Czech media.
Vujovic has worked in mental fitness for more than 40 years. According to information on his official page, the professional helps corporate companies and athletes. He sells a guide to dealing with mental health called the “Unstress Toolbox.”
The Czech guru informs that he has work on his CV that includes football clubs (Sparta), the Czech under-20 hockey team, golfers, television anchors and even celebrities. He, however, does not mention names. But it is certain that Mensik is one of them.
“In the conditions that prevailed here in recent days, it was very demanding. Even on the court, psychology is fundamental. It doesn’t matter if you are winning or losing by 2 sets to 0. The match remains open and the situation can change at any moment”, said the tennis player. “We’re already in the final rounds of the tournament, so it doesn’t matter who my opponent is,” said the athlete.
“I experienced three great battles here against great players. It’s a Grand Slam, and that’s how it works. In the final rounds, it doesn’t matter who is on the other side of the court. Everyone, including me, wants to show their best tennis,” said Mensik.
The duel between Fonseca and Mensik is scheduled for 3:15 pm (Brasília time) this Tuesday (2).
The winner of the duel will face German Alexander Zverev, number three in the world, or Spanish Rafael Jodar, who will also play this Tuesday, in the semi-final.
