Controversy has erupted after Novak Djokovic overcame the blistering Melbourne heat to defeat a visibly suffering Gael Monfils 4-6, 6-3, 6-1, 6-3, in the second round of the Australian Open.
The hot and humid conditions triggered a social media outcry with many criticising the tournament. New York Times journalist Christopher Clary said the organisers were ‘frying players’ on the courts and tennis player Bethanie Mattek–sands called for the roof to be closed. At one stage during the match, Monfils warned that he could collapse due to the heat. Prompting the Australian Open to defend their excessive heat policy.
“It was obvious that we both suffered on the court today.” Djokovic said during his on-court interview. “Really tough conditions, brutal. Especially for the first hour-and-a-half.”
The Extreme Heat Policy comes into effect once the ambient temperature exceeds 40C & the Wet Bulb index (WBGT) exceeds 32.5C. The health of our players is of paramount concern to us, and we are constantly monitoring conditions. Let’s hope it cools down!
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) 18 January 2018
A roller coaster opening set laid out the tone of the match as both players struggled for consistency with a lack of match play being a factor. Djokovic was only playing his second match since the Wimbledon championships due to an elbow injury. Meanwhile, Monfils was playing in his seventh since returning from a knee problem.
Exchanging breaks between each other, it was Monfils that had the edge against his error-stricken rival by nudging ahead for a 5-3 lead. Djokovic produced 17 unforced errors and five double faults during the opener. Slightly less than Monfils’ 19 and six. Nevertheless, the unseeded Frenchman managed to prevail for the 6-4 lead with the help of a winning forehand volley at the net.
Coming from behind Djokovic managed to revive his match hopes as the unforgiving heat started to take its toll on his rival. The temperature soared to almost 40 degrees during their clash as Monfils struggled to cope. Struggling for movement and taking pauses between points. Raising a debate about if it was ethical to allow players to play in these conditions.
Monfils to umpire: "I'm sorry, it can't be 25 seconds between points. It can't be 25 seconds"
— Jonathan Newman (@Tennis_Jon) January 18, 2018
On the other hand, the former world No.1 refused to show signs that he was suffering in the conditions. Maintaining a perfect poker face to draw the match level. Djokovic’s calm approach to the match appeared to be a winning combination as he continued to exert his dominance with ease. Cruising through the third set in exactly 30 minutes by winning 26 out of 38 points played.
To an extent, the highly anticipated second round clash was no longer a match, but a survival of the fittest. One that the Serbian 14th seed triumphed in without showing any signs of any issues with his troublesome elbow. Although he continues to have reservations about it.
“It is still not at 100%, but it’s building. I had a lot of faith, self-belief and I know what I am capable of.” The 30-year-old said about his elbow.
Still, closing the match out was by no means a simple task as Monfils conducted a mini resurgence. Triggering the first real signs of frustration from Djokovic. Eventually the six-time champion managed to prevail after a Monfils error secured a break in his favour to move to a game away from the victory. The wine was then sealed after he concluded an apprehensive marathon final service game with a backhand volley at the net.
“I came into the match knowing that it was going to be a big challenge for the both of us. Gael is one of the best athletes, if not the best athlete, in our sport.” Said Djokovic.
“He moves around so well, gets the a lot of balls back and has a big serve. (I was) just trying to hang in there and trying to use every single opportunity that was presented.”
Djokovic will take on Spanish 21st seed Albert Ramos in the third round. The Spaniard disposed of Tim Smyczek in straight sets. Djokovic leads Ramos 4-0 in their head-to-head and is yet to drop a set against him.
