Gael Monfils completed the 500th win of his career after defeating Alex de Minaur at the Cincinnati Open. Nick Kyrgios, Monfils’ close friend has conveyed his regards and best wishes to the French star on his Instagram post. This is Monfil’s 17th year as a professional tennis player and no better time for the 500th win.
Moreover, Gael has joined an elite list of players which includes Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Rafael Nadal. He beat Alex de Minaur 6-3, 7-5 in order to reach win number 500.
500 career match wins🙏🏾#lovemysport #blackexcellence pic.twitter.com/f2ue8cfZRC
— Gael Monfils (@Gael_Monfils) August 19, 2021
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Nick Kyrgios wishes Monfils on his 500th career win
Gael Monfils became the 11th active player in the world to record 500 career wins. He is also the second French player after Richard Gasquet to reach the special milestone. His celebration was sweet and simple as he posted about the achievement on his social media handles.
Kyrgios, the flamboyant and friendly person that he is, did not fail to congratulate his friend. “Unreal brother, proud of you always,” said Kyrgios under Monfils’ Instagram post. Kyrgios is still a long way behind the French star when it comes to career wins.
Monfils enjoys a 500-289 win-loss record in his career, whereas Kyrgios is on 168-101. The Aussie is fairly young and has a long way ahead in his illustrious career. Besides recording the 500th win, Monfils also reached the third round of the Cincinnati Open.
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Who will Monfils face next?
Gael Monfils will be facing number four seed, Andrey Rublev in the third round at Cincinnati. Rublev beat Marin Cilic in the second round, 5-7, 6-3, 6-1. The Olympic mixed doubles gold medalist has been in top form this year and will be looking to get past Monfils.
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Monfils has not had the best of the runs this year as he experiences a 5-11 win-loss record. However, the high from his 500th win can boost his chances towards a win over the Russian. Rublev and Monfils will be meeting for the second time in a competitive game. Monfils won the previous meeting between the two at the Qatar Open in 2018.
How far can Monfils reach at the Cincinnati Open?
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Read More: Gael Monfils Joins an Elite Club With Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic After Cincinnati Open R2 Win