Gael Monfils may have been thrilled to secure a victory in the first round of the 2024 Cincinnati Open, but his excitement quickly turned into a daunting reality when he learned that his next opponent would be none other than Carlos Alcaraz, a player he already considers a “legend.”
Monfils’ description of the 21-year-old Spaniard as a legend might seem premature to some, but when you look at Alcaraz’s achievements, it’s clear why the Frenchman holds him in such high regard. Alcaraz has already claimed four Grand Slam titles—a feat that surpasses the career total of Andy Murray, a player long considered part of the “Big Four” in tennis. Additionally, Alcaraz became the youngest male player ever to reach the world No. 1 ranking, further solidifying his place among the sport’s elite.
These accomplishments are far from ordinary. They are the hallmarks of a player destined for greatness, and Monfils, who has faced the best in the game, knows a legend when he sees one. Having played against Alcaraz twice before, Monfils is well-acquainted with the Spaniard’s prowess on the court. Their first encounter at the 2022 Indian Wells Open ended in a decisive 7-5, 6-1 victory for Alcaraz. The second meeting earlier this year in Miami was similarly one-sided, with Alcaraz winning 6-2, 6-4.
These matches have given Monfils a firsthand understanding of just how complete a player Alcaraz is. In comparing him to the likes of Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer, Monfils didn’t hold back in his assessment. “He’s a complete athlete,” Monfils said, highlighting Alcaraz’s speed, endurance, power, and all-around tennis skills. “He’s just a bit younger, but he’s already a legend.”
For Monfils, who has spent nearly two decades competing at the highest level, such praise is not given lightly. His words reflect not only respect but also a recognition of Alcaraz’s potential to define this era of tennis, much like Djokovic, Nadal, and Federer did before him.
As Monfils prepares for their upcoming clash, he acknowledges the challenge ahead but remains enthusiastic. “It’s always cool to play such a big star like Carlos,” he said, adding that the match will be a memorable experience, even if the odds are stacked against him.
This match-up promises to be a thrilling encounter between a veteran who has seen it all and a young star who seems destined for greatness. Whether Monfils can defy the odds remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Carlos Alcaraz’s legend is only just beginning, and even his peers are already taking notice.
Photo from Gael Monfils Instagram
