In a dramatic turn of events at the Cincinnati Open, Carlos Alcaraz, known for his usually composed demeanor, had a rare outburst of frustration during his match against Gael Monfils. The match, which took place on a tense Friday afternoon, saw Alcaraz struggling to find his rhythm against the experienced Frenchman.
The first set went in favor of Alcaraz, who managed to secure it 6-4 with his powerful groundstrokes and precise serves. However, Monfils, renowned for his athleticism and resilience, fought back fiercely in the second set. The set extended into a tiebreak, where Monfils edged out Alcaraz 7-6, leveling the match and setting the stage for a thrilling decider.
As the third set unfolded, Monfils took an early lead, holding serve to go up 3-1. It was at this moment that Alcaraz’s frustration boiled over. After failing to break Monfils’ serve, Alcaraz smashed his racket multiple times on the court, a rare display of anger from the young Spaniard. The crowd watched in stunned silence as the racket was left mangled on the court, a testament to the intensity of the moment.
Despite his efforts to regain composure, Alcaraz couldn’t turn the tide. Monfils, capitalizing on the momentum, maintained his lead and eventually closed out the match 6-4 in the final set. This victory marked a significant achievement for Monfils, who had not reached the quarterfinals in Cincinnati since 2011.
Alcaraz’s outburst was a stark contrast to his usual calm and collected on-court persona. In his post-match interview, he expressed his disappointment, calling it one of the worst matches he had ever played. The incident highlighted the immense pressure and emotional strain that professional athletes endure, even those as talented and composed as Alcaraz.
As Alcaraz moves forward, this match will likely serve as a learning experience, reminding him of the importance of maintaining composure under pressure. For Monfils, the victory was a testament to his enduring skill and determination, proving that he remains a formidable opponent on the ATP tour.
Carlos Alcaraz in 2024
Currently ranked no.3, the Spaniard played his last match on the 16th of August when he capitulated to world no.46 Gael Monfils 4-6 7-6(5) 6-4 in the 2nd round in Cincinnati (draw).
This season Alcaraz has achieved a compiled 38-8 match record. Carlos has won 3 titles in 2024 in Indian Wells, French Open and Wimbledon. Alcaraz was the finalist in Paris.
Monfils in Cincinnati, ranking, and results in 2024
At the moment ranked no.46, the French player achieved an overall 20-18 win-loss record in 2024. The French player is now competing in Cincinnati where he overcame the world no.23 Alexei Popyrin 7-5 6-3 and the world no.3 Carlos Alcaraz 4-6 7-6(5) 6-4.
He is also scheduled to play at the U.S. Open (U.S. Open). The main draw will start on the 26th of August.
Carlos Alcaraz and Gael Monfils fought against each other 3 times. Their current record is 2-1 for Alcaraz.