Djokovic: "I don't want to give the impression of justifying my defeat"

© AFP

Clément Gehl

le 31/03/2025 à 07h27

1 min to read

Djokovic Mensik Miami

Novak Djokovic lost to Jakub Mensik in the Miami final, despite entering the match as the heavy favorite.

He was notably seen on the day of the final with a swollen right eye.

However, during the post-match press conference, the Serbian refused to make excuses to justify his loss.

"Nothing should overshadow Mensik's victory, so I prefer not to address certain points.

I don’t want to give the impression of justifying my defeat—the conditions were the same for both players, and you have to accept all circumstances.

I’m leaving with the bitter taste of losing the final, but I’ve regained good feelings on and off the court.

I’m very grateful for the support I received and enjoyed the experience, in addition to having played well all week—except today.

Losing is never pleasant, but I must say Jakub is one of the few players I’m actually happiest to lose to in a final, to be honest.

I met him when he was 15 or 16 and invited him to train with me in Belgrade.

It’s fantastic to see his progress. Three or four years ago, I already predicted he would become one of the best in the world, so I’m very happy he’s fully realizing his potential.

It was a strange match—I didn’t feel quite right."