Jakub Mensik takes down 'incredible' Joao Fonseca to set up French Open semi-final with Alexander Zverev

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Czechia sensation Jakub Mensik sealed his place in the semi-finals of the French Open with a three-set victory over Joao Fonseca on Court Philippe-Chatrier.

Highlights: Mensik claims thrilling three-set victory over fellow young gun Fonseca

Video credit: TNT Sports

Mensik, 20, will now look forward to his first Grand Slam semi-final when he takes on Alexander Zverev on Thursday after a 6-4 6-3 7-6(3) win.

It signals the end to a memorable run to the last-eight for No. 28 seed Fonseca, Novak Djokovic’s conqueror.

The match-up between two of the sport’s hottest prospects had been highly anticipated, and it lived up to its billing.

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"Great guy, great competitor. Before the match I knew it was going to be a tough one," said Mensik of his opponent.

"Joao is one of the greatest hitters on tour. Incredible from the baseline. I wouldn't say who hit the stronger, but it was about opening the court, come forward often to the net and play aggressively."

Mensik claimed a hard-fought first set after securing the only break of the opener in the fifth game and continued to serve impressively, sealing the set on his second set point after 42 minutes.

Mensik explains how he triumphed over 'one of the greatest hitters on tour' in Fonseca

Video credit: TNT Sports

He moved to within a set of victory as he took the second 6-3 with another composed display. The Czech youngster secured the decisive break from 40-0 down, again in the fifth game, showcasing his superb defence and touch at the net before backing it up with dominant serving.

Mensik looked in complete control after two sets but was forced to dig deep in a tense third set, saving set points and missing six match points before finally prevailing in the tie-break, eventually sealing victory after two hours and 47 minutes.

"We started a little bit nervous, then at the end of the match there were some incredible shots," continued Mensik.

"I’m super happy that I’m the one who came back in the third set. I was a couple of breaks down, but I’m happy I managed to stay focused and stay in the match until the end.

"It was one of my best performances so far. It was really tough to stay focused until the end."