Gael Monfils explained what he enjoyed most about watching Rafael Nadal play at the French Open.
The Spaniard made his return to Grand Slam action in Paris for what might be the final time in his illustrious career.
In a high-quality battle with Alexander Zverev, the 37-year-old produced some scintillating shots as he reminded everyone why he is one of tennis’ greatest players.
Nadal bowed out of the tournament with a 6-3, 7-6(5), 6-3 defeat but Monfils was very pleased with what he saw from his fellow veteran.
Gael Monfils praises Rafael Nadal at the French Open
It wasn’t only the fans who were excited to see Nadal play at Roland Garros for possibly the last time.
Both ATP and WTA number one players Novak Djokovic and Iga Swiatek, who are also the French Open defending champions, in addition to Carlos Alcaraz were in the stands to watch their colleague perform.
Before opening his Roland Garros campaign against Brazil’s Thiago Seyboth Wild, Monfils revealed he watched Nadal’s match and what he liked most about his game.
“He’s our legend. He’s everybody’s legend. He’s back. It’s impossible not to watch him, impossible. When I say it’s important, it’s more than that. I know that I love him whatever happens,” he told reporters.
“But I don’t think there is a single tennis player who hasn’t watched Rafa. It’s impossible. When I say it’s important, it’s because we all respect him so much, even though we are friends with him. He is the king of clay courts. He’s back, he’s playing.
“I was happy because he was hitting a good forehand. He’s not over. He was being pushed, but he put a good forehand in. But maybe in two months… Well, I thought it was fantastic to watch. I was happy to watch him.”
What is Gael Monfils’ head-to-head record against Nadal?
Monfils has played Nadal 16 times, with the first of those meetings coming back in 2005.
The Frenchman has managed just two victories against the 22-time Grand Slam champion, with both coming in Doha.
The first came in 2009 when Monfils claimed a 6-4, 6-4 win in the quarter-finals, before beating him again at the same event in 2012.
Two years later, Nadal and Monfils met in Doha once again, this time in the final. The World number one at the time gained some revenge by securing a 6-1, 6-7(5), 6-2 win to claim the title.
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