ATP Tour
Gael Monfils is a fans' favourite wherever he competes, and the US Open is no exception.
The 38-year-old Frenchman holds a 33-16 record at the hard-court major, a tally that includes a semi-final run in 2016. Back this year for his 17th main-draw appearance in New York, ATPTour.com spoke to Monfils about his favourite US Open memories.
Read more US Open insights and memories from ATP Tour stars in our ‘My US Open’ series.
What is your first memory of watching the US Open?
It’s a good question. I don’t have much memory of watching the US Open. When I was young, I was at the French Federation sometimes and it was the middle of the night [in France], so there was no chance to watch tennis.
What about your first memories of playing the US Open, either as a junior or as a pro?
I played in ‘03 my first US Open in juniors and I lost to Brian Baker in the second round.
What were your thoughts about the venue the first time you went to the US Open?
I loved it. I loved the energy, it was crazy good. Straight away I felt like it was a tournament I wanted to do well at.
As somebody who likes to entertain the crowd, is there a special vibe at the US Open with fans going crazy?
It’s unbelievable, now it's like a second home for me. I really feel great there. The crowd is amazing and the energy is unbelievable. I always look forward to going to New York.
What is the most memorable match you’ve played there?
Many matches, to be honest. I don’t have one special because I’ve had many great matches, great memories there. Even tough battles that I lost — I remember I lost a tough one, a five-setter against Juan Carlos Ferrero [in 2011].
Do you have a favourite court other than Arthur Ashe Stadium?
No, Arthur Ashe is my idol as well, so for me it’s always special to play on that court. That is my favourite.
What about the city itself? Did you enjoy it the first time you went?
For me, it was amazing. My first time there was my second time in America, so for me it was unbelievable. It was exactly what I saw in the NBA, because I was watching more NBA than tennis. I could see a different energy and a different culture. When I came for the first time, I was amazed and I knew I would love this country.
If you could plan a perfect non-tennis day in New York City, what would that look like?
It’s different now because you grow up in age. Right now it would be different than when I was young. I can’t really tell you now exactly, because it’s my second year that I will bring my daughter. It’s completely different from when you are 18 or 25. A perfect day is to chill, see around, have great shows. Easy.
Have you ever ridden the subway?
Of course, you have to take the subway. For sure as a French guy, you’ve [been on] many subways.
What about your favourite food in the city? Would you eat at some of the street vendors?
Sometimes, yes. Then I have some great restaurants that I like to go back to every year.
Have you spent any time at Central Park?
Of course. I used to practise there actually in between matches. I was staying in the city, so I was practising at Central Park during the day off.
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