Gael Monfils delivered a stunning performance at the Australian Open, defeating the No. 4 seed Taylor Fritz in a thrilling match that ended 3-6, 7-5, 7-6 (1), 6-4. The 38-year-old Frenchman showcased his enduring talent and resilience, coming back from a set down to secure the victory. Monfils’ victory was punctuated by a spectacular 134 mph ace, his 24th of the match, which doubled Fritz’s total.
The crowd at Margaret Court Arena erupted in cheers as Monfils celebrated his win with a spontaneous dance at the baseline. Fans waved French flags and roared in appreciation of his charismatic and entertaining style of play. Monfils’ exuberant celebration was a testament to his joy and relief after overcoming a challenging opponent.
This win marks Monfils’ first victory over a top-five player at a Grand Slam since 2008, when he defeated David Ferrer at Roland-Garros. Known for his dynamic and unpredictable game, Monfils used a mix of slice, spin, and lobs to disrupt Fritz’s rhythm and secure the win. His wife, Elina Svitolina, who was scheduled to play later that night, was seen sharing a joke with him after the match, both clearly in high spirits.
Monfils’ journey at the Australian Open is far from over. He will next face either No. 16 Lorenzo Musetti of Italy or No. 21 Ben Shelton of the United States, both of whom are 22 years old. Monfils’ impressive performance and his ability to entertain the crowd have made him a fan favorite, and he will undoubtedly continue to be a captivating presence on the court.
As Monfils prepares for his next match, he remains focused and disciplined, emphasizing the importance of recovery and self-belief. His remarkable comeback and celebratory dance have added to the excitement of the tournament, and fans eagerly await his next performance.
Taylor Fritz in 2025
At the moment ranked no.4 (career-high), Fritz played his last match on the 18th of January when he was defeated by world no.41 Gael Monfils 3-6 7-5 7-6(1) 6-4 in the 3rd round of the Australian Open (draw).
Presently, during this year Fritz achieved an overall 6-2 record. The American conquered 1 title in Australia.
He is also scheduled to play in Dallas (Dallas Open) on the 3rd of February and Delray Beach (Delray Beach Open) on the 10th of February.