The Frenchman, aged 37 and 54th in the world, needed three sets (6-0, 6-7, 6-2) to validate his best victory of the season, after a night match. His last success against a member of the Top 10 was in August 2023 against the Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas during the Masters 1000 in Toronto. “I feel that I am playing well, I feel that I am moving better and better, it allows me to create a tactic where I feel good, where I can bother these players. I had good momentum today (Saturday), starting well that helps, I rode on that and I managed to hold it well,” commented Monfils. “I am gradually gaining strength. I’m happy, it’s a good match won.” In the next round, Monfils will face Briton Cameron Norrie (28th), winner of the tournament in 2021, on Monday for a place in the round of 16.