BRISBANE — Novak Djokovic extended his head-to-head record against Gael
Monfils to 20-0 with a commanding 6-3, 6-3 victory in the second round of the
Brisbane International, here at the Pat Rafter Arena.
Despite their lopsided head-to-head record, Djokovic
expressed deep admiration for Monfils, who he first encountered as a junior.
“We have been playing for many years. I have known Gael
since I was 15,” Djokovic said. “He is one of the best, if not the best,
athlete in our sport over the years. Incredible flexibility, agility, and
speed. He’s such a great player to watch and a great character, attracting fans
worldwide. Tons of respect for him, and hopefully, we can play more before we
both retire.”
Their first encounter dates back to the 2005 US Open when
Djokovic claimed his maiden win against Monfils. Nearly two decades later, the
Serbian legend is on the verge of history, aiming to become only the third male
player to win 100 tour-level titles after Jimmy Connors (109) and Roger Federer
(103).
Djokovic has started his Brisbane campaign with purpose,
dismantling Rinky Hijikata in the first round and showcasing his trademark
consistency against Monfils. The 37-year-old broke Monfils three times during
their 72-minute encounter and never allowed his opponent to settle. This
victory also extended Djokovic’s winning streak against French players to 27
matches, with his last loss to a Frenchman coming against Benoit Paire in Miami
in 2018.
Adding a personal touch to his Brisbane journey, Djokovic
revealed that his children, Stefan and Tara, have accompanied him to Australia
for the first time. Their presence has added a joyful dimension to his time
Down Under.
“My children told me to have two different kinds of
celebrations,” Djokovic shared. “My daughter told me to keep going with the
violin if I win. My son told me to play the saxophone, so I try to incorporate
both. Having them here is special - it fills my heart and helps me play my best
tennis.”
Djokovic, now coached by Andy Murray, is fine-tuning his
form ahead of the Australian Open in Melbourne, where he will seek a
record-extending 11th title and his 25th Grand Slam. Murray, currently skiing
with his family, will join Djokovic next week to finalise preparations.
In the Brisbane quarterfinals, Djokovic faces the towering
Reilly Opelka, a matchup that promises to test his return game against one of
the tour’s most formidable servers.
Having already teamed up with Nick Kyrgios in doubles
earlier this week, Djokovic is embracing his second appearance in Brisbane
since 2009. With his eyes set on his 100th ATP title and a record-breaking
performance in Melbourne, Djokovic continues to build momentum.
