Birthday triumph in New York
Gael Monfils marked his 40th birthday in style by defeating Adolfo Daniel Vallejo 2-6, 6-1, 6-2, 6-0 in the first round of the US Open on Tuesday night. The Frenchman, playing in his 18th and final US Open, bowed to the crowd at Louis Armstrong Stadium after a leaping forehand winner, acknowledging the ovation from fans who sang 'Happy Birthday' during his post-match interview.[S1][S3]
Monfils became the oldest man to win a US Open match since Jimmy Connors, who also won on his 40th birthday in 1992. The former world number six, who announced his retirement at the end of this season, said the occasion was special and that he wanted to perform well, not just adequately, given his current stage.[S1][S3]
Comeback and record
After a nervous start that saw him lose the first set, Monfils dominated the next three sets, securing his 131st Grand Slam match win, an all-time record for a Frenchman. He credited his versatility and rhythm for the turnaround, saying he felt he could do better even after the sloppy start and eventually found a 'cruise control' feeling.[S3]
The victory was Monfils' first Grand Slam win since the first round of Wimbledon in 2025. He received a watch from his wife, Elina Svitolina, as a birthday present. Monfils, who reached the US Open semifinals in 2016, will next face American 14th seed Learner Tien in the second round.[S1][S3]
