"Not the end of the world": Monfils calls analysing the rankings as 'an obsession from people', believes it holds little significance
ATP
Gael
Monfils downplayed the significance of the ATP ranking he achieved at the
Cincinnati Open, stating that it is more of an obsession from people than a
personal focus.
The
36-year-old Frenchman has been experiencing a resurgence on the tour after a
year of absence. Monfils reached the round of 16 at the DC Open and then
progressed to the quarterfinals at the Canadian Open, including victories over
Aleksandr Bublik, Cristopher Eubanks, and Stefanos Tsitsipas in these two
tournaments.
"I
love the U.S. swing all the time. Stay here, felt good energies. Is great.
Really love the courts, the venues. It's always special for me to come back
playing in the States at that moment. So, you know, I'm quite
happy," Gael Monfils said.
In May, he
was as low as 394th in the rankings, but his performances during the hardcourt
swing have allowed him to climb to the position of world No. 211.
At the
Western & Southern Open, he achieved a significant victory in the first
round against the 13th seed Cameron Norrie, which, according to the live rankings,
has ensured his entry into the world No. 180.
"The
thing is, of course, a lot of people mind the ranking in the absolute. I feel
like it’s different for me. It’s getting to the end of my career. Of course,
200, whatever I am. In the well-est year, I was 15. Doesn’t really matter my
ranking. It’s more about if physically I’m able to play weeks after
weeks," he added.
"I
know that when I’m 100 percent I have a decent level, maybe a bit more than my
ranking. But ranking is not for me, the end of the world. Is an obsession from
people. Maybe when you’re younger, you think about it. Maybe when you want to
be seeded, you think about it," former world No. 6 claimed.
In the
second round of Cincinnati, he will face the Australian Alex De Minaur, who is
in great form after defeating J.J. Wolf in the first round and being a finalist
in the Masters 1000 Canadian Open.
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.
claps 0visitors 0
Just In
Popular News
Latest Comments
- Either Lena has a chronic internal ailment (i.e., colitis, enteritis, Crohn's, or some type of lower abdomen issue) -- or she is once again dealing with 'Vukovitis'. Mental stress can indeed cause lower body pains. No matter... whatever is truly going on sucks. "Virus" excuse is getting a bit old -- and often -- at this point.
mandoist09-11-2026 - Ironically, Martina became a U.S. Citizen about the same time as the Orange Convicted Felon & Abuser was just beginning on his road to losing all Daddy's Millions!!mandoist09-11-2026
- "Another fresh start is in the cards." Thanks for the Humor!! I'm guessing this is the minimum one can do to keep all your sponsors hanging-on in perpetuity?mandoist09-11-2026
- Vukov is doing this to Lena... AGAIN!!!!! WTA's autonomous collective should be dismantled for allowing Vukov to re-emerge from his hand-slapping suspension. Just ask WTA employees how that's been going lately as they witness his continued verbal abuses. Women's Pro Tennis should start over.mandoist08-11-2026
- Can't help but suspect Vukov is back to his old self again. Thank you, WTA. Perhaps you can give them a "Battling Couple of the Year Award 2026" ??mandoist08-11-2026
- Wtf? Why is there no reason? And what about the men's?Bel08-11-2026
- One step by another step -- WTA continues to 'lose the plot'. Too many hi-tech microphones being installed at most venues!!! Remove them (especially those along the hallways, sidewalks, and pathways throughout the venues. Not to mention (most of all) remove the mic's from the Players/Coaches Box.mandoist06-11-2026
- Enough of her bullshit. Go marry someone.mandoist06-11-2026
- Don't you just love this young lady!? We fans often expect athletes to be supermen and superwomen, often forgetting that they WILL GET TIRED! I love Alex's perspective. Tiredness for an athlete should never be viewed as a negative, especially if you are healthy, taking care of your body and mental health and putting in the work. What a mature perspective. Good for you, Alex!Rapunzel05-11-2026
- Jess is absolutely correct! But the disrespect is a trait I have noticed in most of the Russian players. Mirra is good but very immature and lacks humility. Conceivable needs to get a handle on that!Rapunzel05-11-2026
