Gael Monfils believes he did ‘some good things’ against Novak Djokovic despite losing for the 20th time against him in Brisbane
Gael Monfils has now lost all of his 20 meetings against Novak Djokovic, starting from the US Open loss in 2005.
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Gael Monfils and Novak Djokovic (via X)
Gael Monfils remains positive despite losing to Novak Djokovic for the 20th time in a row on the ATP Tour. Their rivalry began in 2005 at the US Open, and the outcome has stayed the same for nearly two decades. Monfils feels he played well but sees the defeat as a useful “reality check.” He is now focusing on preparing for the Australian Open.
Djokovic has been in excellent form as he aims for his 100th career title. In Brisbane, he dominated his first two matches, including a strong performance against Monfils. Djokovic’s consistent play and ability to convert all three break points helped him win in just over an hour.
Novak played well, the ball came out of his racket really well, he went forward well and above all he served well, better than I thought. Honestly, he was good (smiles). I started my year with a good match against a young player (victory against Basavareddy 6–4, 4–6, 6–1) and a match against a top 10 player right from the start, having done some good things even if it wasn’t enough. There were times when I would have liked to change certain choices, but there were some good sequences. When you play a top 10 player early in the year, you see where you are. I saw where I am.
Gael Monfils said in an interview to L’Equipe
Djokovic will now face Reilly Opelka in the quarterfinals. His coach, Andy Murray, is currently away skiing with his family but will join him in Melbourne next week. Murray has been following Djokovic’s matches closely and will be encouraged by the Serbian’s impressive form.
As the Australian Open approaches, Djokovic looks confident and sharp. His strong start in Brisbane sets a solid foundation as he continues his journey toward another major milestone.
Novak Djokovic dives into his clash against Reilly Opelka
Novak Djokovic finds playing someone like Reilly Opelka “frustrating.” This will be their first meeting, and Opelka’s powerful serve and unique style make him a tough opponent. The American is also on the comeback trail after dealing with injuries over recent seasons.
Going into the quarters now against Opelka, one of the best servers in the game. Great guy. Again, someone that struggled with injuries the last few years. Just awfully frustrating to play against, like Isner in his best days. Mpetshi Perricard, as well. Youngster, big guy, huge serve.
Novak Djokovic said in his post-match interview
In the quarterfinals, Djokovic will face Opelka in the last match on Friday. If he wins, he could meet Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in the semifinals, provided the Frenchman beats Jakub Mensik in their match. The path to the final won’t be easy.
Sometimes you’re more walking in the return games than you’re actually playing. You have to get used to that. When the opportunities are presented, in the tiebreak or maybe before, you try to put that pressure on your server. That’s what I’ve been able to do most of the times in my career. I think the performance tonight [against Monfils] gives me a great deal of confidence coming into tomorrow.
Novak Djokovic added
Djokovic, however, remains in high spirits. The 24-time Grand Slam champion is focused and confident heading into the match. He is chasing a major milestone that could add to his legendary career. A victory in Brisbane would secure the 100th singles title of Djokovic’s career. This achievement would put him alongside tennis greats like Roger Federer (103 titles) and Jimmy Connors (109 titles) in the Open Era.
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Fahad Hamid
(684 Articles Published)