gael Monfils Turns back the Clock with Stunning Victory at Australian Open
In a match that showcased the enduring brilliance of French tennis, Gael Monfils, at 38, delivered a masterclass to defeat fourth seed Taylor Fritz in a thrilling encounter at the Australian Open. The Frenchman’s 3-6,7-5,7-6,6-4 victory under the afternoon sun at the Margaret Court Arena was a testament to his resilience,tactical acumen,adn sheer love for the game.
Monfils, who celebrated his win with a dance on the court, said, “I feel good. I felt that at this moment I wanted to do this.” His victory not only secured his place in the round of 16 but also made him the second oldest player to reach this stage since 1988, when the tournament expanded to a 128-player main draw. Only Roger Federer, in 2020, has achieved this feat at an older age.
The match was a rollercoaster. Fritz, 11 years younger and a finalist at the US Open, started strong, taking the first set. However, Monfils absorbed the American’s power with solid defence and gradually dismantled his game. The Frenchman’s ability to minimize errors and constantly change the pace of his shots proved decisive.
The third-set tiebreaker was a turning point. Monfils raced to a 6-0 lead, showcasing a series of successful strikes, and sealed it with a powerful forehand along the sideline. Fritz, visibly frustrated, admitted, “It is indeed unfortunate to be eliminated in the third round, the way it happened.I probably won’t sleep much because of it. It was a really good match on his part.It seemed very easy for him even. He outperforms me because I struggle to cause him any harm.”
monfils’ victory was part of a golden start to the season. He arrived in Melbourne on the back of eight consecutive wins, including the Auckland Classic title,where he became the oldest player to win an ATP tournament. reflecting on his form, he said with a smile, “I think I am the best 38-year-old athlete participating in professional players’ association tournaments. I felt that I was able to move wonderfully today, and the match plan was to maintain my best performance and definitely change the rhythm. I think I succeeded in the mission.”
Next, Monfils faces American ben Shelton, who defeated Lorenzo Musetti in a hard-fought match. The frenchman will aim to reach the quarter-finals in melbourne for the third time, a feat that would further cement his legacy.
Monfils’ performance was a reminder of his enduring talent and charisma. He played before his wife, Elina Svitolina, who was set to compete on the same court. Joking about his party, he said, “I think I lit the stadium on fire for her.”
While some might dream of lifting the trophy, Monfils has a different vision. “My dream is to become old, have many children, and enjoy good health,” he said, encapsulating his beliefs of life and sport.| Key Highlights | Details |
|—————————————-|—————————————————————————–|
| match Result | Monfils def. Fritz 3-6, 7-5, 7-6, 6-4 |
| Monfils’ Age | 38 (Second oldest to reach round of 16 since 1988) |
| Next opponent | Ben Shelton |
| Season Form | 8 consecutive wins, including Auckland Classic title |
| Fritz’s Reaction | “He outperforms me because I struggle to cause him any harm.” |
Monfils’ journey at the Australian Open continues to inspire, proving that age is just a number when passion and discipline are in play.
