WATCH: Monfils hits outrageous winner in epic Wimbledon win
Gael Monfils produced a trademark hotdog volley winner in his marathon first round match against Christopher O’Connell at Wimbledon.
The match stretched over three days due to rain and bad light but Monfils eventually edged past the Australian 4-6, 6-2, 7-6, 4-6, 6-4.
Monfils had lost five consecutive grass court matches, and has never been past the fourth round at Wimbledon. The 34-year-old played some outstanding tennis that thrilled the crowd. O’Connell was playing his first ever main draw match at The All England Club after coming through qualifying last week.
Many players have been finding it difficult to stay on their feet this week, Monfils is doing just alright judging by this volley.
Monfils doing Monfils things out there 😲
🎥: @Wimbledon | @Gael_Monfils pic.twitter.com/bE994GkszE
— ATP Tour (@atptour) June 28, 2021
The opening couple of sets were shared, before Monfils took a crucial third set tie-break to move within one set of round two. O’Connell came roaring back to force a fifth set.
The five set battle lasted over three hours, with the Frenchman breaking in the first game of the deciding set and holding serve throughout to take it 6-4. Monfils hit 14 aces and 41 winners as he looked to be the aggressor and break down the Aussie’s defence.
He will face Spaniard Pedro Martinez in round two tomorrow who defeated Stefano Travaglia in four sets.
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