Acrobatic Monfils is back for another Classic crack
One of the ATP Tour’s most entertaining players is returning to Auckland.
Charismatic Frenchman Gael Monfils, known for his acrobatics and ability to hit winners from anywhere on court, has been confirmed as part of the 2019 ASB Classic field at Stanley St. Monfils is ranked just inside the top 30 but was as high as No 6 two years ago.
The 32-year-old has previously reached the last four at the US Open and Roland Garros, and has made the quarter-finals at six other grand slams. He has beaten six players ranked No 1 at the time, including Roger Federer, Rafa Nadal and Andy Murray.
Monfils played the ASB Classic on two previous occasions — in 2007 and
2013.
He came back from a set down to beat Benjamin Becker in three sets in the first round in 2013, then outlasted former world No 2 Tommy Haas 3-6,
7-5, 6-3 in the late-night quarter-final, a match still regarded as one of the best in the tournament’s history.
“We’re stoked to have Monfils back and we’re thrilled he’s chosen to head to Auckland over defending his title at Doha. He’s an absolute showman, an exciting player to watch, and we know he’s going to entertain the crowd,” said tournament director Karl Budge.
“Gael’s 2013 match against Tommy Haas [was] truly epic. It’s become one of those iconic matches referred to when people are talking about the ASB Classic.”
Monfils, sometimes nicknamed “Sliderman” due to his incredible athleticism and flexibility, took his seventh ATP title in Doha this year. He also reached the final of the European Open and semifinals in Argentina and Turkey in 2018.
He was meant to come to Auckland in 2014 and 2015 but pulled out, once through injury and the other citing fatigue. But hopes are high this time, especially given he will start his season in New Zealand, rather than play week one in the Middle East. Monfils, in the twilight of his career but still an immensely talented player, is looking forward to returning to the Queen City.
“I’m happy to be returning to Auckland,” said Monfils. “It’s a beautiful place and I love playing there. The crowd is always very active and I’ve been wanting to come back for a long time, so I’m glad to be able to make it happen.”
Former Auckland champions John Isner and Roberto Bautista Agut, along with Wimbledon finalist Tomas Berdych and Hyeon Chung, are other names confirmed for the men’s event, which runs during January 7-12.