ASB Classic | Magic Mensik snaps Sebastian Baez incredible streak to open 2026 sealing Auckland title

Last year ironically it was one of the oldest on the tour to win the title and this year it is one of the future stars as Jakub Mensik claims the baton from Gael Monfils at the ASB Classic in Auckland.

Mensik slammed the door shut on Sebastian Baez in an epic fightback as it looked likely that the Argentine was set to continue his mammoth streak which has seen him dazzle at both Auckland and also the United Cup last week.

Baez who is a streaky player anyway perhaps isn't unexpected when it comes to having a run but still many have wondered where has this come from and he nearly defeated the 20-year-old Czech ace for his troubles.

The latter though saved three consecutive set points from 3-6 down in the second set tie-break before claiming a 6-3, 7-6 win at the hard court 250. Baez incredible start to the year was underlined as he won his first seven matches of the 2026 season. Some like Jannik Sinner haven't even played their first yet no mind winning seven overall.

But Mensik produced an incredibly high standard serving display to become the youngest Auckland champion since Juan Martin del Potro back in 2009.

Mensik made a rapid start to the contest hitting 11 aces in the opening set alone. He won 21/22 of points behind his first serve and having clinched the only break of serve in the opening set in the sixth game, he was on the verge of victory in the second breaking again for 6-5. However there was a sting in the tail as Baez forced a tie-break immediately breaking back and soon held three set points at 6-3.

Mensik produced an incredible drop volley, an ace and a return winner to fend off the danger and sealed the win in 82 minutes. He now rises one spot to World No.17 as a result of his Auckland run and faces off against Pablo Carreno Busta in the first round of the Australian Open next week.

“I would say it’s been a great start to the year,” said Mensik in his on-court interview. “I’m super happy that after my preparation and preseason, when obviously you are not in the rhythm and you are coming for the new season with a lot of energy, I showed the performance that I wanted. I’m super happy for the win.”

“Seb is a great fighter. It’s super difficult to hit a winner against him,” reflected Mensik. “When I was 6-5 up in the second set, I had been serving very well the whole match and then I went through a couple of second serves. He used the chance, and then in the tie-break, when it was 3/6… I’m happy that I managed to stay focused and keep the spirit until the end.”