Gael Monfils (No. 40) overcame
Dominic Thiem (No. 134) with
a 6-4, 7-6 victory, advancing to the second round of the ATP 250
Mallorca Championships.
The 40-year-old was impeccable with his serve, not conceding any break
opportunities to his opponent.
Thiem was once again defeated in the first round of a main
draw and likely played his last match on grass, after confirming his absence
from Wimbledon and announcing his retirement at the end of the season at just
30 years old.
Monfils defeats Dominic Thiem in straight sets
In the first set, Thiem managed to keep pace with Monfils'
serve early on, but in the 6th game, the first break of the match occurred,
with the Frenchman taking advantage of his second opportunity to go ahead 4-2.
Monfils won 88% of points on his first serve and had 6 aces, ultimately winning
the set 6-4.
In the second set, Monfils' effectiveness increased to 91%
of points won on his first serve compared to Thiem's 75%. The former US Open
champion again played solid service games, but in the 5th, he started
hesitantly, giving his rival three break opportunities. However, he kept his
cool and managed to hold his serve.
The set progressed to a tie-break, where Monfils showed a
higher level than his rival. He capitalized on a couple of unforced errors from
Thiem, securing two mini-breaks to lead 4-0. On his third match point, Monfils
sealed the victory in straight sets, 6-4, 7-6, and advanced to the second round
in Mallorca, where he will face
Roberto Carballes Baena.