Djokovic running out of time for milestone

Defeat in Miami final extends long barren spell but clay campaign brings clear chances of 100th ATP title

- Tumaini Carayol

During a quiet period in the relentless calendar three years ago, the 16-year-old Jakub Mensik received an unexpected proposal. The Czech, who had just reached the boys' singles final at the Australian Open, was invited by Novak Djokovic, his idol, to train together at the Serb's academy in Belgrade. The pair quickly established a rapport, with Djokovic offering advice and counsel. For Mensik, this was a pivotal moment.

On Sunday, at the Miami Open, the pair stood across the net from each other again, this time as rivals, and he closed out a 7-6 (4), 7-6 (4) victory to win his first ATP title in one of the top tournaments.

It was an immense performance from the teenager, who continued to dominate behind his enormous, precise first serve and he was fearless and attacking throughout, particularly in the tie-breaks.

His breakthrough run included beating three top-eight players - Jack Draper (No 7), Taylor Fritz (No 4) and Djokovic (No 5). There is no doubt he has marked himself as a future grand-slam contender.