"The dream is to win a Grand Slam" - Monfils discloses aspirations after successful Rotterdam title defence

Gael Monfils has always been overlooked when it comes to serious Grand Slam contenders, but the Frenchman is proving that perhaps it's better late than never.

A fortnight after winning his third Open Sud de France title in Montpellier, Monfils returned to the winner's circle by defending his title in Rotterdam.

The charismatic Frenchman is now on a 9-match winning streak and has been playing possibly the best tennis of his career. Shockingly, this is the first time he has won two titles in a season and the World No.9 remained elated after his victory.

“It’s an amazing feeling for the first time for me to back it up, year after year, week after week,” said Monfils. “It is a different feeling I have never experienced in my career, so I feel grateful.”

After claiming his 10th ATP Tour-level title, the Paris native also accomplished the feat of being the first player to successfully defend the Rotterdam title since Sweden's Robin Soderling in 2011.

The Frenchman is a fan-favorite anywhere he goes, but seems to save his best tennis for Rotterdam. He has amassed a 14-1 record there since 2016, when he also reached the final (l. to Klizan).

Although Monfils could be classified as "old" by tennis standards, the 33-year old still has dreams of winning a Masters 1000 event and even a Grand Slam.

“In the FedEx ATP Rankings, I want to reach the fifth spot," said Monfils. "I have been sixth. I would like to reach the final at another Masters 1000, why not try to win one and keep the dream alive? The dream is to win a Grand Slam and that is what I am playing for and training for. It is tough, but I believe that maybe one day I will be lucky enough to win one.”

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