Faller of Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, fifteen years his junior, Gaël Monfils, 38 years old, wants to continue fighting without focusing on his age, even if his body is responsible for reminding him that he is no longer young.
Undefeated this season, winner of his 13th ATP title in Auckland three days ago, Gaël Monfils was back on the court this Tuesday to stop the rising star of French tennis in his rise. The French veteran perpetuated his legend as an extraordinary athlete by dominating his young compatriot Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in a fight for his entry into the Australian Open. Winner in five sets (7-6, 6-3, 6-7, 6-7, 6-4), the indestructible Gaël Monfils defies time at 38 years old, and pushes the limits.
Promised to the German Daniel Altmaier in the next round, the “Monf” does not necessarily wish to project itself further into the tournament. “I want to continue in this direction, giving the best of myself, without thinking about my age,” said the Parisian, with the lucidity of a wise old man.
“I have the right to be tired”
“I want to fight without focusing on the numbers,” he assured with his usual phlegm, claiming not to feel the slightest pressure. His age? “It’s just a number.” However, the weight of the years on the circuit risks being felt on the recovery time between matches. Especially since the fight was fierce between the two players, in the stifling heat.
“I try not to think about it, but I can tell you that tomorrow morning, I will be more 48 than 38,” admitted Gaël Monfils.
“That's what's funny, you have the impression that it's so easy that you think I'm 28 years old, he was surprised. But I'm not 28 years old, I'm 38. I'm good, I have my little girl with me, I'm happy I have the right to be tired, but I'm fighting and I like it. I'm tired. I try to surpass myself. Of course I'm tired, but what, guys, I'm going to fight, I'm training for it. Unfortunately, I would have preferred to be 28 than 38, I tell you.”
