Gael Monfils discussed the shot that has become more pivotal in his game later in his career.
The Frenchman is thoroughly enjoying the twilight phase of his career and is still competitive on the ATP Tour.
In fact, the 37-year-old has made two tournament semi-finals in 2024 and still sits inside the world’s top 50.
After returning to hard court action at the Canadian Open, Monfils hopes to build some momentum in Cincinnati before heading to the US Open.
He has made a great start after defeating Alexei Popyrin to move into the next round in Ohio.
Which shot is now more important to Gael Monfils’ game?
Monfils has now been a professional tennis player for 20 years and has plenty of experience competing in the biggest tournaments against the best players.
But as players get older, it becomes harder to maintain a certain level of play and various skills naturally begin to decline.
Monfils is known for his exceptional speed and defensive skills, but as it is now harder to implement those skills, the player admitted he is now more reliant on a certain shot to take some of the pressure off.
“My serve 100%. My serve. Trying to be more effective. Stronger. Really trying to take my time to have a good first serve and dictate a little bit more with my forehand,” he told Tennis Channel.
“I used to really like defence. Defence is key. But now it’s tougher for me to defend for two or three hours, so I have to be more offensive, so using those weapons which is my serve and forehand.”
Gael Monfils defeats Canadian Open champion to begin Cincinnati campaign
Monfils had a tricky start to the Cincinnati Open after being drawn to face Alexi Popyrin, who won his first Masters 1000 title in Montreal two days before their match.
Monfils claimed a tight opening set before going on to secure a 7-5, 6-3 win over the Australian.
There is no rest for the veteran as he takes on reigning French Open and Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz in round two.
The Spaniard will play his first match since claiming a silver medal for Spain at the Paris Olympic Games.
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