Gael Monfils wary of Egyptian wild card
dubai — Gael Monfils, the flamboyant Frenchman, is happy to be back for the 25th edition of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships.
“I feel good to be here again, you know. It’s been a while since I played this tournament so I’m happy to be back,” the world number 10 told reporters on Sunday.
“The last time I played here was in 2008. I lost to Tomas Berdych, so it was a tough match. I’m not confident to make the first one because you know every match is tough here. But I’m just confident that I can play at 100 per cent,” the 2016 US Open semifinalist said.
Monfils is not sure what to expect from his Dubai first round rival — Egyptian wild card Mohamed Safwat.
“I know him a little bit. I saw him play couple times in Doha and in some other tournaments,” he said.
The 30-year-old shotmaker admitted that a good performance here will do a world of good to his confidence going into the season.
“Definitely if I play good tennis
I know him a little. I saw him play couple times in Doha and in some other tournaments Gael Monfils
here it will be good for my confidence because it’s a strong field with so many big names and you will build a lot of confidence. That will help in the rest of the season, so my goals are pretty much same. I want to play consistent tennis and try to catch a big title at the end,” he added.
Monfils, a player known for his athleticism and showmanship, says his biggest ambition has always been to do well at the home Grand Slam.
“It’s a dream to play well at the French Open and win that Slam. That’s definitely a big goal to perform great there. Last year I missed it so this year I definitely have expectations,” the 2008 French Open semifinalist said.
“The support from the crowd in Paris helps and because of that I say my biggest goal in tennis is to win it.”
rituraj@khaleejtimes.com