Gael Monfils, who celebrated his 40th birthday on the US Open courts, defeated Paraguay’s Daniel Vallejo (ATP-60) 2:6, 6:1, 6:2, 6:0 in the first round and extended his last career Grand Slam tournament for at least one more match.
In the history of the US Open tennis championships, only two players who have reached their fifth decade have managed to win matches in the men’s singles competition – the Frenchman joined the legendary Jimmy Connors, who also did this on his 40th birthday in 1992.
Still retaining his athleticism, G. Monfils threw a real birthday party on the second largest Louis Armstrong court, performing his traditional high jump shot in the air.
After the match, the legendary Frenchman was congratulated by the gathered audience on his birthday, and in an interview, he revealed what gifts he received from his wife, also a professional tennis player, Elina Svitolina.
“Thanks to the spectators, because you always electrify the atmosphere in New York. Elina has a meeting tomorrow, so it’s very nice to have her presence and support here. Her gift was wonderful – for my 40th birthday I received an impressive watch,” said Gael.
Having won only his fifth victory this season, G. Monfils will face the talented American Learner Tien (ATP-15) in the second round. These players met a few weeks ago in Montreal, where after a tough three-set battle, the US representative triumphed.
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