Monfils Can Do Nothing But Smile After Falling Victim To Most Bizarre Ace Of 2019
Monfils Can Do Nothing But Smile After Falling Victim To Most Bizarre Ace Of 2019
Frenchman left stranded by windy conditions in Estoril
Reilly Opelka has never needed help adding to his ace count on the ATP Tour, but the American received plenty on Wednesday to leave Gael Monfils amused and confused at the Millennium Estoril Open.
The 21-year-old landed his fifth ace of the match in strange circumstances, as the wind on Estadio Millennium diverted his serve to leave Monfils stranded at the baseline. Serving at 6-3, 2-5 (40/30), Opelka’s delivery appeared to be heading towards Monfils after landing in the middle of the service box, but a strong gust of wind blew the ball away from the Frenchman to hand the New York Open champion his ninth game of the match.
Monfils responded well to the unexpected ace, laughing and giving a ‘thumbs up’ to his opponent before motoring to victory. Following the humorous incident, the eight-time ATP Tour titlist claimed seven straight games to secure a 3-6, 6-3, 6-0 win.