Top Tennis Players to Watch Out for in 2026
Jakub Mensik: The Rising Star
With the 2026 ATP Tour season on the horizon, tennis fans are eagerly anticipating the next wave of breakout stars. One player who has already made a significant impact is Jakub Mensik, a 19-year-old Czech phenom who has been turning heads with his impressive performances.
Mensik made a statement by winning a Masters 1000 title in Miami, where he defeated none other than his idol, Novak Djokovic, in the final. Currently ranked as high as world No. 16, Mensik has shown that he has the potential to be a Top 10 player and a contender for the ATP Finals next year.
Standing at 6’4″, Mensik is known for his powerful serve, which averages around 130 MPH on his first delivery. His hold percentage of 85.1% in 2025 ranks him among the top players on tour, while his ability to hit aces at a rate of 16% demonstrates his dominance on serve.
Despite his reputation as a big server, Mensik’s game extends beyond just his powerful serves. He possesses strong baseline skills, moves well for his size, and has a reliable backhand that rivals some of the best on tour.
To reach the next level, Mensik will need to work on improving the consistency of his forehand wing and his conditioning to ensure he can compete at the highest level for extended periods.
Overall, Mensik is a player to watch out for in 2026, as he continues to make strides towards establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of tennis.
Hamad Medjedovic: The Aggressive Contender
Another player on the rise is Hamad Medjedovic, a Serbian talent who has been steadily climbing the rankings and making his presence known on the ATP Tour.
Medjedovic’s aggressive game style, characterized by powerful serving and a heavy forehand, has helped him reach his first ATP final in Marseille earlier this year. His ability to generate massive topspin on his forehand side has set him apart from his peers and has led to impressive wins over top players.
While Medjedovic’s game is tailor-made for hard courts, he has also shown proficiency on clay, making him a versatile threat on any surface. However, his challenge will be to maintain a high level of consistency and mental fortitude throughout the season.
With the right guidance and continued development, Medjedovic has the potential to break into the Top 30 and compete for titles on the ATP Tour in 2026.
Eliot Spizzirri: The Challenger Star
American player Eliot Spizzirri has been making waves on the Challenger circuit, with an impressive rise in the rankings and notable victories under his belt.
Spizzirri’s tenacious return game and improved serving have been key factors in his success, leading to a significant jump in his ranking from No. 738 to a career-high No. 103 in just 10 months. His ability to convert break chances and hold his serve at a high rate has made him a formidable opponent on the court.
With a well-rounded game and a strong work ethic, Spizzirri is on track to break into the Top 75 or even the Top 50 in 2026. His experience on the Challenger circuit has prepared him well for the challenges that lie ahead on the ATP Tour.
Dino Prizmic: The Croatian Sensation
One player who has been making a name for himself is Dino Prizmic, a Croatian talent who has been turning heads with his exceptional ball-striking abilities and aggressive baseline game.
Prizmic’s breakthrough performance at the 2024 Australian Open, where he pushed Novak Djokovic to the limit, was just the beginning of his rise in the tennis world. With back-to-back Challenger titles in 2025 and a career-high ranking of No. 115, Prizmic is on the cusp of breaking into the Top 100.
Known for his powerful groundstrokes and ability to dictate rallies, Prizmic has the potential to become a regular threat on the ATP Tour with more experience and consistency. His impressive results on clay and hard courts bode well for his future success.
Nicolai Budkov Kjaer: The Young Talent
At just 19 years old, Nicolai Budkov Kjaer has been making headlines with his dominant performances on the Challenger circuit, capturing titles and climbing the rankings at a rapid pace.
Budkov Kjaer’s elite-level weapons, including a powerful serve and a hammer-like forehand, have set him apart as a player to watch out for in 2026. With the right guidance and continued development, he has the potential to break into the Top 100 and establish himself as a rising star in the world of tennis.
As the new ATP Tour season approaches, all eyes will be on these talented players as they aim to make their mark and take their game to the next level in 2026.
Top Tennis Players to Watch Out for in 2026: Emerging Talents
Jakub Mensik: The Rising Star
Jakub Mensik’s meteoric rise in the world of tennis has been nothing short of spectacular. His breakthrough victory over Novak Djokovic in Miami sent shockwaves through the tennis community, establishing him as a formidable force on the court. With his towering frame and powerful serves, Mensik has all the makings of a future Grand Slam champion.
As Mensik continues to fine-tune his game and work on his consistency, he is poised to make a splash in the upcoming ATP Tour season. His blend of power and finesse makes him a unique threat to the established players on tour, and his hunger for success is evident in every match he plays.
Hamad Medjedovic: The Aggressive Contender
Hamad Medjedovic’s aggressive playing style has earned him a reputation as a fierce competitor on the ATP Tour. His penchant for big serves and heavy forehands puts pressure on his opponents, forcing them to play on his terms. With a strong work ethic and a desire to succeed, Medjedovic is on the path to breaking into the upper echelons of men’s tennis.
As Medjedovic continues to refine his game and work on his mental toughness, he is positioned to challenge the established players for titles and accolades in the 2026 season. His versatility on different surfaces makes him a well-rounded player capable of adapting to any playing conditions.
Eliot Spizzirri: The Challenger Star
Eliot Spizzirri’s rapid ascent in the rankings is a testament to his unwavering determination and skill on the court. His ability to grind out tough matches and capitalize on his opponents’ weaknesses has propelled him to new heights in his career. With a well-rounded game and a hunger for success, Spizzirri is a player to watch out for in 2026.
As Spizzirri transitions from the Challenger circuit to the ATP Tour, he will face tougher competition and higher stakes. However, his experience at the lower levels has prepared him well for the challenges that lie ahead, and he is ready to make his mark among the elite players in the sport.
Dino Prizmic: The Croatian Sensation
Dino Prizmic’s fearless approach to the game has earned him a reputation as a rising star in Croatian tennis. His aggressive baseline game and exceptional ball-striking abilities make him a formidable opponent for any player on tour. With a string of impressive performances under his belt, Prizmic is on the brink of breaking into the upper ranks of men’s tennis.
As Prizmic continues to hone his skills and gain valuable experience on the ATP Tour, he is expected to become a regular contender for titles and Grand Slam success. His knack for dictating rallies and taking control of matches sets him apart as a player with unlimited potential and a bright future ahead.
Nicolai Budkov Kjaer: The Young Talent
At just 19 years old, Nicolai Budkov Kjaer has already made a name for himself as a rising star in the tennis world. His powerful serve and dominating forehand have caught the attention of fans and analysts alike, pointing to a promising future ahead. With his relentless work ethic and hunger for success, Kjaer is set to make a significant impact on the ATP Tour in 2026.
As Kjaer continues to develop his game and gain valuable experience on the professional circuit, he is expected to climb the rankings and challenge the established players for top honors. His raw talent and natural ability make him a player to watch out for in the upcoming season, as he aims to leave his mark on the sport of tennis.
As the 2026 ATP Tour season approaches, these emerging talents are poised to take the tennis world by storm, challenging the established order and ushering in a new era of exciting and competitive play. With their unique skills and unwavering determination, these players are set to captivate audiences and showcase the next generation of tennis excellence.
