The great French entertainer, Gael Monfils claimed the 11th title of his career and his first in almost two years when he beat Russia’s Karen Khachanov 6-4 6-4 at the Adelaide International on Sunday.
It is amazing to play in front of guys, to play in front of a full crowd with a good spirit and atmosphere. This is amazing. It is a great tournament Gael Monfils
He admitted that playing in front of crowds is what motivates him and not empty stadiums, so he provided them with plenty to admire with his flamboyant tennis.
Both men had no trouble holding their own throughout the match although Khachanov, the second favourite behind Monfils, twice dropped his level to allow his opponent to win in straight sets, and both those occasions occurred in the 10th game of each set.
“I want to thank my team. We have had some tough moments, we lost a little bit of faith, but we came back strong from July last year. It is amazing to play in front of guys, to play in front of a full crowd with a good spirit and atmosphere. This is amazing. It is a great tournament
“I have been training here since 2009. I know the place very well. I love Adelaide and I am very happy to win the title here”, said Monfils on receiving his trophy.
The two men will remain in Adelaide for next week’s second ATP tournament, where Monfils is top seed once again.
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