Gael Monfils opened what is expected to be his final Monte-Carlo campaign with a 6-7(7), 6-1, 6-4 win over world No. 30 Tallon Griekspoor, recovering from a set down. The 39-year-old Frenchman, competing as a wild card, arrived after early exits during the Sunshine Double and with minimal clay-court preparation, needing time to settle into the match.
The opening set was defined by instability on serve from both players. Griekspoor broke early but failed to consolidate, while Monfils also struggled to hold consistently. The set moved into a tiebreak after multiple breaks, where the Dutchman capitalised on errors, including a double fault from Monfils at 7-7.
Despite taking the lead, Griekspoor’s momentum was disrupted early in the second set when he required treatment for a shoulder issue. His first-serve level dropped, and he struggled to maintain baseline intensity, allowing Monfils to step forward and dictate more of the exchanges.
Monfils responded by increasing rally tolerance and reducing errors, using depth and variation to force shorter balls. The adjustment proved effective as he levelled the match after one hour and thirty minutes, shifting control ahead of the deciding set.
Physical shift changes match dynamics
The second set marked a clear turning point, with Griekspoor unable to sustain his earlier level after the medical timeout. His first-serve effectiveness declined, and his movement appeared more restricted, limiting his ability to control points from neutral positions.
Monfils took advantage by dictating more of the exchanges, particularly on return. He extended rallies and targeted the backhand side, forcing errors and drawing the match into longer patterns that favoured his consistency. The Frenchman moved through the set with minimal resistance to restore parity.
“I had to find the balance with, of course, a lot of emotions, knowing it’s my last year here,” Monfils said. “I also haven’t played since Indian Wells, so it wasn’t easy, but in the end, I found my range and I’m pretty pleased with this win.”
Experience decisive in closing stages
With momentum on his side, Monfils carried his level into the deciding set and managed the key moments more effectively. He initially failed to serve out the match at 5-2 but responded by saving a break point in his next service game, maintaining composure under pressure.
The match was completed in just over two hours, sealing a notable milestone. Monfils became the oldest match winner in Monte-Carlo since 1973 and moved to 145 ATP Masters 1000 match wins, the highest total among French players. “I love to play with emotion, I love playing with the crowd. The balance is easy for me to find because it's joy and I can allow my creativity on the court."
He improves to a 16-12 record in Monte-Carlo, having debuted at the event in 2005 and reached the final in 2016. Monfils will next face Alexander Bublik in the second round, as he looks to extend his run in what he has framed as his final appearance at the tournament.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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