The start of the match saw both men predict each other’s games as this was only the second time they had met on clay and the first time they had met at Roland Garros. Monfils moved well at the start of the match, testing out Gasquet’s fitness levels and the quality of his backhand. Gasquet used his backhand to create the tight angles and expose Monfils’ backhand side. There was entertainment as well, as Monfils attempted one of his slam dunk volleys to keep the Chatrier crowd intrigued. Most games were at 30-30 before the server held until the tenth game. This is as a delightful lob created break point opportunity for Monfils.
However the elegant Gasquet saved several break points to hold for 5-5. The charismatic Frenchman, came back to hold to love to take a 6-5 lead before play had to be suspended due to heavy rain. It was announced later in the evening that all remaining matches were cancelled for the day. It means that these two French combatants will continue their match tomorrow on Chatrier.
In the meantime here is Monfils’ epic shot that occurred earlier in the match:
https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/status/871043787119882240
