Key Takeaways
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Learner Tien defeats Gaël Monfils 6-3, 0-6, 6-3 in the second round of the National Bank Open
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The match marked Monfils’ final career appearance in Canada
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Tien asked Monfils for an autograph on a tennis ball, admitting it was his first time requesting a signature
A memorable victory
Learner Tien produced one of the most talked-about moments of the 2026 National Bank Open in Toronto, defeating veteran Gaël Monfils 6-3, 0-6, 6-3 in the second round. The win was significant not only for Tien’s progress in the tournament but also because it marked Monfils’ last career match in Canada.
A viral gesture
After the match, Tien approached Monfils with a tennis ball and asked for his autograph. “It was my first time ever asking another player for a signature,” Tien admitted. The gesture quickly went viral, capturing the respect and admiration the young American has for the French star.
Monfils’ farewell in Canada
For Monfils, affectionately known as “La Monf,” the match was a poignant farewell to Canadian fans. His career has been defined by flair, athleticism, and charisma, and even in defeat, he received warm applause from the crowd.
Respect across generations
The moment between Tien and Monfils symbolised the passing of the torch in tennis. Tien’s humility and admiration highlighted the impact Monfils has had on younger players. The autograph request became a snapshot of sportsmanship and respect, resonating far beyond the tennis court.
Tien now continues his run in Toronto, while Monfils leaves behind a legacy of entertainment and inspiration for fans and fellow players alike.
Learner Tien chiede un autografo a Gael Monfils dopo averlo sconfitto 6-3, 0-6, 6-3 al secondo turno di Montreal.
Era l'ultimo match della carriera de La Monf in Canada.
Una scena meravigliosa. 🥹❤️
📹 obnmontreal pic.twitter.com/oUcHVe4ACu
— SuperTennis TV (@SuperTennisTv) August 6, 2026
ATP Montreal - Learner Tien's projected path
Tien in Montreal, ranking, and results in 2026
At the moment ranked no.19, Learner has managed to achieve a 23-13 win-loss record in 2026. Learner is now playing in Montreal where he ousted the world no.347 Gael Monfils 6-3 0-6 6-3.
Learner Tien will take on the world no.21 Tommy Paul in the 3rd round. Their actual head to head record is 1-0 for Paul.
Learner has won 1 title in 2026 in Geneva.
Gael Monfils in 2026
Currently ranked no.347, the French player played his last match on the 5th of August when he was defeated by world no.19 Learner Tien 6-3 0-6 6-3 in the 2nd round in Montreal (draw).
Until now, during this year Monfils has achieved a compiled 4-9 match record.
Learner Tien and Gael Monfils fought against each other just on 1 occasion. Their actual record is 1-0 for Tien.
