The Auckland rematch between 38 year old legend Gael Monfils and 19 year old upstart Nishesh Basavareddy promised to be an intriguing clash and it delivered even more.
The American prospect was the better player in the first set, but he could not finish the cagey, wiley veteran who feigned exhaustion and fatigue, continuing a pantomine act between points showing how tired he was, bending over seemingly on the verge of retiring.
But then suddenly in the first set tiebreaker he got the mini break back at 6-5 and yelled out a very loud LET’S GO!!! Suddenly the old man wasn’t tired at all. He won the next point off an error and stole the set.
Set two was similar, very even, hard fought points and games. This kid from California has all the shots and tenacity and speed a foot to become a deMinaur caliber player or even better. But yesterday he fell victim to Monfils’ crafty experience.
Monfils looked tired in the second set too but continue to perform at an excellent level. At 4-4 in the second Monfils took over and won eight of the last ten points, mostly off Basavareddy errors. Monfils saved all five break points in the match.
“I am very happy. This kid has a bright future, he is playing really well,” said Monfils, who also beat Basavareddy in Brisbane last week in three sets. “I played quite well today. Moved great, defended well. He pushed me to the limit. I knew it would be tough and it was tough. I trust my fitness and am pleased to have won in straight sets.”
Monfils act of exhaustion and fatigue gained the support and pity of the crowd which was in his corner. The psychological pressure broke Basavareddy as much as Monfils heroic play. Basavareddy crumbled when it counted most, subconsciously not wanting to be the villain who slayed the lovable old and very popular champion. Monfils, ATP 52, will play Zizou Bergs for the Auckland ASB title, his last title was won in Stockholm in 2023. If Monfils wins it will be his 13th ATP singles title.
Artengo · Auckland · Gael Monfils · Nishesh Basavareddy
