Standing the test of time: Gael Monfils becomes third oldest player in top 100 of ATP Rankings

Tuesday, 24 October 2023 at 01:00

Gael Monfils became the third oldest player in the top 100 after winning the title at the Stockholm Open.

The Frenchman had a slow start in the final against Russia's Pavel Kotov (119th), who won the first set 6-4. The match remained closely contested, and the second set had to be decided via a tie-break, where Monfils managed to stay solid and won the set 7-6(6).

In the decisive set, the 37-year-old French player showcased his best shots, ultimately winning the match with a score of 4-6, 7-6, and 6-3.

Monfils endured, fought, worked hard, and reaped the ultimate reward. He executed a tremendous comeback to claim the top prize. Additionally, there's an added sentimental value as it's his first trophy since becoming a father.

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First title as a father 🏆😍 @Gael_Monfils | @sthlm_open | #bnpparibasnordicopen

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4:22 PM · Oct 22, 2023

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On his path to the title, Monfils defeated Hungary's Marton Fucsovics (52nd), Austria's Filip Misolic (181st), France's Adrian Mannarino (24th), Serbia's Laslo Djere (35th), and the aforementioned Kotov in the final match.

Monfils' outstanding performance in Sweden allowed him to climb more than 50 positions, returning to the top 100 after 10 months. The former world No. 6 is now the third oldest player in the top 100 at 37 years old, behind only world No. 69 Richard Gasquet (37 years old) and world No. 45 Stan Wawrinka (38 years old).

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Furthermore, Monfils achieved a remarkable milestone shared only by Rafael Nadal and Jimmy Connors in the history of tennis. These three players are the only ones to reach at least one final in 19 consecutive seasons.

There will be no rest for Monfils after winning his 12th title, as he has traveled to Austria for the Vienna Open, where he will make his debut against Germany's Daniel Altmaier (54th).

Furthermore, the following week, he will participate in the Paris Masters 1000, where he received a wildcard entry from the organizers.

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12th title of his career! Down a set, Gael Monfils rallies back to defeat Pavel Kotov 4-6, 7-6(6), 6-3 to win the title in Stockholm. #bnpparibasnordicopen

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3:58 PM · Oct 22, 2023

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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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