Monfils' stellar serving carries him past Thiem in ATP Mallorca Championships

Monday, 24 June 2024 at 19:57

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.

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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.

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Première victoire sur gazon depuis 2021 pour Gael Monfils 💚🇫🇷 Le Français écarte Dominic Thiem en deux sets au premier tour du tournoi ATP 250 de Majorque et décroche sa PREMIÈRE victoire en sept confrontations face à l'Autrichien. ⚔️