Jakub Mensik has continued his superb form into the Madrid Open, where he has reached the last 16.
Andy Roddick labelled Mensik a ‘work in progress’ after his Miami Open success, with the Czech ace having lifted the trophy in March.
Mensik beat Novak Djokovic in the Miami Open final for his maiden ATP title, with a career-high rank of 23 then going his way.
The 19-year-old is now eyeing further success at the Madrid Open, where he has now beaten American duo Ethan Quinn and Ben Shelton.
Mensik beat the former 7-6(7-4), 6-1 in round two after a first round bye, before defeating the latter 6-1, 6-4 in round three.
Jakub Mensik and Ben Shelton not feeling well in Madrid Open clash
The Madrid Open 22nd seed now has a last 16 tie with Alexander Bublik, who has just knocked out seventh seed Andrey Rublev.
Mensik did, however, have an issue against Shelton despite the win, having been asked post-match what solutions he has for an opponent with a serve as big as himself.
“I don’t know,” he replied. “Today was a good day at the office for my return. I know Ben can serve much better.
“Still at this high altitude, pretty much the fastest clay court… so it was always tough to break him. I knew he wasn’t feeling very well.
“Me neither, but still I tried to reach my best level I can this week. I’m glad I came up with the win. Let’s see what the next round brings.”
Jakub Mensik produces serving masterclass to stun Ben Shelton
Shelton, currently ranked 13th in the world, has come on leaps and bounds in recent times, particularly on clay.
And the American’s big serve has been key to his recent rise, but it was his latest opponent who stole the show in that regard.
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| Ben Shelton | Service stat | Jakub Mensik |
| 214 | Serve rating | 299 |
| 5 | Aces | 5 |
| 1 | Double faults | 2 |
| 28/59 (47%) | First serve | 28/43 (65%) |
| 17/28 (61%) | 1st serve points won | 26/28 (93%) |
| 15/31 (48%) | 2nd serve points won | 6/15 (40%) |
| 5/9 (56%) | Break points saved | 0/0 (0%) |
| 230km/h 142 mph | Max speed | 226km/h 140 mph |
| 207km/h 128 mph | 1st serve average speed | 213km/h 132 mph |
| 173km/h 107 mph | 2nd serve average speed | 205km/h 127 mph |
Mensik outclassed his opposite number in several areas, but his service was simply unstoppable in Madrid.
The 19-year-old is certain to strike fear into Bublik, having need just one hour and eight minutes to storm past Shelton.
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