Monfils' Moment?
At age twenty-two, Frenchman, Gael Monfils, has one of his best opportunities to win the French Open. Monfils faces Roger Federer in the quarters which is a rematch of their 2008 French Open semifinal won by Federer. Clearly, Federer also sees this as a golden opportunity to win the one Grand Slam that has eluded him now that Rafael Nadal has lost. However, Monfils has played much better than Federer so far this year at Roland Garros.
In his win over Andy Roddick in the round of 16, Monfils outplayed Roddick finishing with a 45-18 edge in winners, 17-4 advantage in aces and saved nine of ten breakpoints he faced. In contrast, Federer recovered from being two sets to love and breakpoint down at 3-4 in the third set against Tommy Haas to win in five sets. In his earlier matches at the 2009 French Open, Federer was in serious trouble against Jose Acasuso and also lost a set to Paul-Henri Mathieu. In contrast, Monfils has only lost one set so far in the tournament. Gael also seems to thrive in front of the French crowd in contrast to other French tennis stars such as Amelie Mauresmo who have always struggled at Roland Garros. Monfils has been plagued with injuries throughout his short career, but so far “Sliderman” seems in good shape at the 2009 French Open after missing most of the clay court season with knee tendonitis. Monfils has that rare blend of natural talent, strength, flexibility and charisma. Five years ago, Monfils captured the French Open Junior Boys’ title and now he has a real chance to thrill the hometown French fans by becoming the first Frenchman to win the title since Yannick Noah in 1983.
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