He always thrills the crowds. At almost 37 years old, Gaël Monfils remains a showman at heart, pampered across the Atlantic. Almost exclusively programmed in “night session” since he arrived on American soil, he proved the organizers right by rediscovering the qualities that have made him shine throughout his career: exceptional ground coverage and an ability to generate emotions thanks to a myriad of anthology points. Whether it was against Alexander Bublik in Washington or Christopher Eubanks in Toronto, the “flashbacks” poured in.
Everybody wants me to carry on
That’s good, a big challenge awaits him this Wednesday against a visibly fit Stefanos Tsitsipas at the start of his American tour, since the Greek has just won his 10th title on the circuit in Los Cabos. Challenge a member of the Top 5, Monfils had not done so since a second round in Madrid in 2022 more than a year ago, against a certain Novak Djokovic, his ultimate pet peeve (6-3, 6- 2 at the time, his 18th in 18 matches against the Serb, Ed).
Passings of anthology and staggering speed: Monfils was in “vintage” mode
Playing this type of match is the Frenchman’s main motivation now and what has pushed him to work hard physically since Roland-Garros and his withdrawal in the 2nd round because of a left wrist injury. “After Roland, I was able to train a lot physically. I could have played grass tournaments doing backhand chips, some do, but I was too good at home with the little one (his daughter Skai, Editor’s note). It’s the next chapter, it’s coming soon. But my team, my wife, everybody wants me to keep playing“, he further explained to the sports daily.
The end is near, so carpe diem
To hear it, Monfils is therefore ready to turn the page on his professional career. He knows that another equally exciting life awaits him outside the circuit, having had a pleasant glimpse of it in recent months. But he is no less passionate about tennis. The flame is still there, proof is his nervousness when concluding the second set against Christopher Eubanks, before achieving it in three sets.
“Somehow, it’s incredible that after twenty years on the circuit, I can still get wet like that when winning. Actually, it was funny to see that, after all I’ve been through. I just tried to stay as cool and positive as possible. You know, I try above all to make myself happy. ” Against Tsitsipas and his slick game, Monfils should still have some fun. And give us some at the same time. Let’s enjoy it while it lasts.