Gael Monfils Shocks Taylor Fritz to Reach Australian Open’s Last 16

A Historic Victory for the 38-Year-Old Frenchman

Gael Monfils, 38, has made a historic statement at the Australian Open, defeating fourth seed Taylor Fritz in a thrilling match that saw him reach the last 16 for the sixth time in his 19th appearance at Melbourne Park.

Monfils, ranked 41, proved to be a force to be reckoned with, using his precision groundstrokes and booming serve to wear down the world number four. The unseeded Frenchman said he was ready to “do some damage” after his win, and he certainly backed up his claims with a determined performance.

A Strategy to Outlast

Monfils employed a strategy to hold the baseline and change the tempo, hitting big shots down the line and using slice with his backhand. He also served well, winning a remarkable 95% of first-serve points. This strategy allowed him to outlast Fritz, who had been in sizzling form before their match, dropping just eight games in his two previous matches.

A Streak of Big Baseline Rallies

The match saw a streak of big baseline rallies, with one stretching to 29 shots and another to 24. Monfils and Fritz went toe-to-toe, with neither player able to work a break-point opening until Fritz was serving to level up at 5-5 in the second set. However, Monfils was able to entice a series of errors from Fritz and break to love for the set.

A Medical Timeout and a Comeback

Fritz needed a medical timeout at the changeover to treat his right foot, and he saved two break points to stay on serve at 3-3 in the fourth set. However, Monfils dug deep, winning an 18-point fourth game and saving two more break points before pouncing on the Fritz serve to break for a 5-4 lead and complete the upset.

A Newfound Belief

Monfils has never been beyond the semi-finals of a major in his long career, but he says he has a strong belief in himself that he can still “do some damage” and reach the second week of the Australian Open. He will meet another American, Ben Shelton, or Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti for a quarter-final berth.

A Conclusion

Gael Monfils’ historic victory over Taylor Fritz is a testament to his determination and skill. At 38 years old, he is the second-oldest man to reach the last 16 at Melbourne Park, behind only Roger Federer. Monfils’ performance has sent a message that he is still a force to be reckoned with in the world of tennis.

FAQs

* What is Gael Monfils’ ranking?
+ Monfils is currently ranked 41.
* How old is Gael Monfils?
+ Monfils is 38 years old.
* How many times has Gael Monfils reached the last 16 at the Australian Open?
+ Monfils has reached the last 16 six times in his 19th Australian Open.
* Who did Gael Monfils defeat to reach the last 16?
+ Monfils defeated Taylor Fritz, the world number four, in a thrilling match.