At 38 years old, he climbed to world number 4, making history at the Australian Open

‘Bonjour Skai’, he wrote to the television camera after another feat in his long sporting career. ‘Good morning, Skai’, a message to his daughter with the Ukrainian tennis player as well Elina Svitolinawhich will play on the same court at the Margaret Court Arena in the local evening session.

He achieved his first family joy by defeating the world number 4, the American Taylor Fritzby 3-6, 7-5, 7-6 (1) and 6-4 in 3h.08′. Disappointment for the eventual US Open and ATP Finals finalist, who started the campaign by winning the United Cup by teaming up with compatriot Coco Gauff.

And another lesson in tennis passion, of passionate dedication to the 38-year-old. The French Gael Monfils continues to be a gift to this sport. Currently world number 41, he is top-10, and has appearances in the quarterfinals of the Australian Open (2016 and 2022) and semifinals at Roland Garros (2008) and the US Open (2016).

He is in the round of 16 at this Australian Open, crossing paths with the American Ben Shelton or Italian Lorenzo Musetti. He is making history with longevity, only the second player to reach 38 years of age, then Roger Federerwhich has reached this point in the event since there were draws of 128 players, in 1988.

He was an important player since he was just a junior, still in fashion. He emerged in Melbourne with the title of champion of the Auckland ATP tournament, with eight consecutive victories. The oldest winner on the circuit since 1977.

Another blow of Gael Monfilsthat last summer knocked off Carlos Alcaraz in Cincinnati, his only victory against a top-5 in the last seven games. He has lost his past 12 matches against one of the five best ranked Grand Slam events.