Experience and grit overcame youthful power as 38-year-old Gael Monfils defeated fellow Frenchman Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in a dramatic 7-6(7), 6-3, 6-7(6), 7-6(5), 6-4 marathon at the Australian Open. The match, lasting three hours and 46 minutes, thrilled the crowd on Court Three, with Monfils showcasing his trademark athleticism and resilience to reach the second round for the 17th time at Melbourne Park.
Generational Showdown
The contest between the seasoned Monfils and the 21-year-old debutant Mpetshi Perricard was more than just a tennis match; it was a spectacle of contrasting styles. Monfils, who first competed at the Australian Open in 2005, faced an opponent who was a toddler at the time of his debut. Despite the age gap, Mpetshi Perricard held his own, matching Monfils’ energy with 19 aces and 69 winners.
Monfils was effusive in his praise for the rising star, particularly highlighting Mpetshi Perricard’s serving prowess.
“Now he is in the category of Reilly (Opelka), John (Isner), Ivo (Karlovic), Milos (Raonic),” Monfils said. “But his second serve is crazy good. I think he is the first guy on tour who hits a second serve as big.”
Tactical Brilliance from Monfils
Monfils’ ability to withstand the onslaught of powerful serves without facing a single break point was crucial. He emphasized the importance of maintaining focus on his own serve to neutralize his opponent’s strengths.
“When you play a guy like Giovanni, John, Reilly, the main focus is your serve,” Monfils explained. “Try not to face a break point.”
The match featured spectacular moments, including an unforgettable fourth-set tiebreak in which both players exchanged tweeners in a jaw-dropping rally. Monfils, known for his flair and athleticism, earned a roar from the crowd after executing his shot while sprinting toward the back of the court.
The Deciding Set
In the final set, Monfils capitalized on Mpetshi Perricard’s nerves. Back-to-back double faults from the younger player handed Monfils an early break, which he converted with a bit of luck as a forehand from Mpetshi Perricard clipped the net cord and fell short.
Despite visible exhaustion, Monfils held firm and secured the victory, extending his French record for Grand Slam match wins to 126.
Monfils Defies Age Again
Having recently become the oldest ATP title winner in the professional era with his triumph in Auckland, Monfils brushed aside concerns about his age.
“I don’t really look at my age. It is just a number,” Monfils said with a smile. “But I can tell you that tomorrow morning I will be (feeling) more 48 than 38.”
Monfils’ ability to balance showmanship with strategic tennis proved decisive, and his victory was a testament to the enduring spirit of a player who continues to captivate fans worldwide.
As he moves into the second round, Monfils’ blend of experience, skill, and charisma ensures he remains one of the most exciting players to watch at this year’s Australian Open.
