Gael Monfils, who holds a dubious record against Novak Djokovic and who is also known to fans as one of the most entertaining tennis players ever, has created history yet again. The last time he was in the history books was when he was defeated by Novak in America. However, this time around, the lanky Frenchman finds himself on the right side of history with a monumental victory.
Despite being 37 years old and having a recently christened father, Monfils is playing every ATP tournament he can participate in. Now, Gael has produced one of his best runs in a tournament to seal another ATP title in his favour.
Gael Monfils surpasses Roger Federer
Only a select group of individuals in tennis have achieved an ATP title aged 37 years or older. With the body aging rapidly post-mid-30s, many players find it hard to maintain the same level of physicality that they had shown in their younger days and even opt to retire from the game in case of injuries.
Gael Monfils, however, is known for his positive attitude and energetic personality. One can only wonder if that is what is pushing the Frenchman’s body to produce good results even after he has passed his prime.
After moving to Europe from China, as part of the year’s hardcourt tournaments, Gael Monfils produced stunning results in the Stockholm Open and won his 12th ATP title of his career in Sweden’s capital.
Monfils defeated the likes of Adrian Mannarino and Laslo Djere in his run to the finals, where he triumphed over Pavel Kotov to be crowned champion in Stockholm. With the win, Monfils became the oldest winner after Roger Federer to win an ATP tour title in the Open Era. Roger Federer won the Basel Open in 2019 at age 38. Other people who have won ATP titles aged 37 or more are Ivo Karlovic and Feliciano Lopez.
“Special week for me with three ladies. My mom, thank you. As always, it’s nice to win a title in front of her. My wife, Elina. Thank you. My daughter Skaï who’s watching in front of the TV. It’s my first time as a father I’ve won a tournament. It’s very special,” Monfils said after his win.
Monfils vs Djokovic’s one-sided rivalry
Gael Monfils and Novak Djokovic have faced off a staggering 19 times over their two-decade-long careers. The head-to-head stands at 19-0 in favor of Novak. The pair first met in 2005, when an upcoming Djokovic upset an established Monfils.
Times changed drastically over the years, though, as Djokovic grew into a tennis superstar and defeated Monfils in every attempt he made. After their most recent meeting at the Cincinnati Open, Monfils hailed Novak as the GOAT of tennis.
Prior to their meeting in 2023, Rafael Nadal held the record for the most wins against an opponent with an 18-0 record against Richard Gasquet. That record was broken when Novak defeated Monfils in Cincinnati.
The pair aren’t done on the tennis circuit just yet, as witnessed by their wins at major tournaments. So, a 20th meeting could very well be on the cards next season.
What are your opinions on Gael Monfils’ new record broken at the Stockholm Open? Will he win a match against Novak Djokovic if they meet again? Let us know in the comments section below.
