At 38, Gael Monfils Defies Age with Borscht-Powered Tennis Triumphs

MELBOURNE, Australia — Gael Monfils, the 38-year-old French tennis star, continues to defy age and expectations, powered by a mix of experience, tactical brilliance, and perhaps a little help from borscht. Monfils recently clinched his 13th ATP title in Auckland, becoming the oldest man to win an ATP event since Ken Rosewall in 1977, and carried that momentum into a thrilling first-round victory at the 2025 Australian Open.

Monfils defeated 21-year-old compatriot Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in a grueling five-set match, 7-6, 6-3, 6-7, 6-7, 6-4, showcasing his trademark athleticism and mental toughness. The win marked Monfils’ 21st consecutive season with at least one major match victory, a testament to his enduring skill and adaptability.

“Gael did some amazing stuff,” Perricard said after the match. “Sometimes on the [changeover] bench, I say to myself, ‘He is not 38.'” Monfils, however, downplayed his age, stating, “I don’t really look up my age. It is just a number. I try to avoid thinking about it, but I can tell you that tomorrow morning I will feel more 48 than 38.”

Monfils’ recent success has been fueled by a combination of tactical adjustments and personal stability. Married to Ukrainian WTA star Elina Svitolina, Monfils has embraced fatherhood, dedicating his Auckland victory to their daughter, Skai. “It’s my second final as a dad, and I’m really happy—super happy—that I could win a tough final,” he said during the trophy presentation.

On the court, Monfils has refined his game, focusing on efficiency and strategy. “The main focus of your serve is actually to try to not face break point,” Monfils explained. “Today I was able to do it with some very good service games. The focus was there, and I was happy with that.”

Perricard, seeded 30th, delivered a strong performance, including 19 aces, but ultimately couldn’t overcome Monfils’ experience and court coverage. Monfils now advances to face Daniel Altmaier, a 26-year-old German who has shown promise but lacks Monfils’ Grand Slam pedigree.

As Monfils continues his Australian Open campaign, his story serves as a reminder that age, while a factor, is not the sole determinant of success in sports. With borscht, family, and a refined approach to the game, Monfils is proving that even at 38, he remains a force to be reckoned with.