“I knew he defended very well, it showed again. He shot passing shots at me, I looked at my coach and said to him: “How is that possible? » Gaël did incredible things. Sometimes, on the bench changing sides, I said to myself: “He’s not 38 years old. » Physically, I don’t believe he’s 38 years old (smile). »
After winning the Auckland tournament last week, Gaël Monfils has just scored a sixth consecutive victory on the ATP circuit. The Frenchman held on physically for five sets in the Australian heat, an impressive performance for a 38-year-old player.
At a press conference following his victory, the current world number 41 confided that he still loved fighting on a tennis court. This is undoubtedly what allowed him to beat Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard this Tuesday at the Australian Open.
I would have preferred to be 28 than 38, I tell you
Gaël Monfils
“I wish I could say that (that he’s 28), but I feel great. I don’t look at my age, it’s just a number. I try not to think about it, but I can tell you that tomorrow morning, I will be more 48 than 38! »
“That’s the funny thing, you feel like it’s so easy that you think I’m 28.” But I’m not 28, I’m 38. I’m good, I have my little daughter, I’m happy. I have the right to be tired! But I fight and I love it. I like castagne. I’m tired, but I’m trying to push myself. Of course I’m tired, but what guys, am I going to give the match? I fight, I train for. Unfortunately, I would have preferred to be 28 than 38, I tell you. »
Gaël Monfils is qualified for the second round of the Australian Open where he will meet the German Daniel Altmaier, 101st in the world in the ATP rankings.
