In a stunning display of resilience and skill, Gael Monfils etched his name in history by becoming the oldest player to win an ATP Tour singles title. The Frenchman triumphed at the ASB Classic in Auckland, defeating Belgium’s Zizou Bergs 6-3, 6-4 in the final to claim his 13th career title.
At 38 years and four months old, Monfils surpassed the record previously held by Roger Federer, who was 38 years and two months old when he clinched the Basel title in 2019. This victory also marks Monfils as the oldest tour-level winner since tennis legend Ken Rosewall’s 1977 triumph at age 43.
“It means a lot. Age is a number,” Monfils said after his historic win. “But we keep working. I keep believing that I can play high-quality tennis, and I’ve been showing it this week, so I am very happy.”
Having won his first title in 2005, Monfils reflected on his journey, acknowledging the rarity of his victories: “I don’t win a lot. It’s been more than 20 years I’ve been playing, and it’s just 13 times I ended up winning.”
The world number 52 now sets his sights on the Australian Open, where he will face 21-year-old compatriot Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in the first round. Monfils’ remarkable feat in Auckland cements his legacy as one of the sport’s most enduring and inspiring athletes.
Source: African Publicity
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