Gael Monfils once again proved that age is no barrier to greatness, clinching the ASB Classic title in Auckland and rewriting ATP history. The Frenchman, at 38 years and four months, defeated Belgium’s Zizou Bergs 6-3, 6-4 in the final to become the oldest winner of an ATP Tour singles title since its inception in 1990.
Monfils’ victory not only brought him his 13th career title but also toppled Roger Federer’s previous record as the oldest ATP champion. Federer had won the Basel title in 2019 at 38 years and two months, but Monfils has now etched his name into the record books.
“It means a lot. Age is just a number,” Monfils said after the match. “We keep working, we keep believing, and I’ve shown this week that I can still play high-quality tennis.”
The achievement also places Monfils in elite company, becoming the oldest man to win a tour-level title since Ken Rosewall claimed victory in Hong Kong in 1977 at 43 years old.
Monfils’ journey to this milestone has been anything but ordinary. Known for his electrifying on-court style and jaw-dropping athleticism, he has been a fixture on the ATP Tour since claiming his first title in 2005. Over the years, Monfils has thrilled fans but also faced injury setbacks and long title droughts.
“I don’t win a lot,” Monfils candidly admitted. “It’s been more than 20 years of playing, and just 13 titles. But moments like this make it all worth it.”
His triumph in Auckland is a testament to his longevity and passion for the sport, a quality that has endeared him to fans worldwide.
The final against Bergs showcased Monfils’ signature mix of finesse and tactical brilliance. Dominating with a strong first serve and quick movement, he kept the younger Belgian under constant pressure. His ability to maintain control in crucial moments underlined the experience of a seasoned champion.
Monfils now heads to Melbourne for the Australian Open, where he will face 21-year-old rising star Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in an all-French first-round clash. While he remains realistic about his chances in the tournament, his recent form suggests he could be a dark horse to watch.
For Monfils, the journey isn’t just about titles—it’s about inspiring others and proving that, in his words, “age really is just a number.”
