Jakub Menšík's semifinal match at the 2026 French Open ended in a 7-5, 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 loss to Alexander Zverev on June 5.

What happened?

The controversy began when Andre Agassi, the former world No. 1 and eight-time Grand Slam champion, criticized Menšík's decision to bring in his mental coach, Dragan Vujovic.

Agassi suggested that Menšík should have relied on his family's support instead.

Why it matters for Jakub Menšík

Menšík, 20, has worked with Vujovic since he was 13 years old, and the mental coach has been a key part of his team.

The Czech star's mother and family have been supportive throughout his campaign.

What comes next?

Agassi's comments were met with backlash from tennis fans, who felt that he was being too harsh on Menšík.

The former world No. 1 had also criticized Jannik Sinner over his unexpected loss earlier in the tournament.

Menšík fought back to take the third set, but Zverev regained control to secure the win.

Agassi acknowledged the physical and mental strain Menšík had endured during the tournament.

The eight-time Grand Slam champion felt that Menšík should make Vujovic "walk back" home after the mental coach's strategies did not pay off.

Menšík had missed crucial opportunities, including a forehand at 3-4, 15-40, and four shanks in a row off Zverev's forehand.

The 20-year-old's loss was a disappointment, given his promising performance in the earlier rounds.

Agassi's comments sparked a debate about the role of mental coaches in tennis and the pressure on young players like Menšík.

The controversy surrounding Agassi's comments will likely continue, with many fans feeling that he was too harsh on Menšík.

Menšík's performance at the 2026 French Open was impressive, despite his loss to Zverev.

The Czech star will look to bounce back from this defeat and continue to work on his game.

The support of his family and team, including Vujovic, will be crucial in his future endeavors.

Reaction to Agassi's comments

Tennis fans took to social media to express their disappointment with Agassi's comments, feeling that he lacked empathy.

Agassi had been open about his own mental struggles during his playing career.

The former world No. 1's comments were seen as hypocritical by some, given his own experiences with mental health.

The debate surrounding Agassi's comments will likely continue, with many fans weighing in on the role of mental coaches in tennis.