Gael Monfils has described two-time Australian Open champion Victoria Azarenka as a ‘fighter’ during her ongoing custody battle.
The former world No.1 hasn’t played a competitive match since the Wimbledon championships. Azarenka is currently in a legal battle with her former partner, Billy McKeague, over their young son. She has been unable to travel with her son Leo after a judge ruled that he must remain in California until the case if resolved. Last month she scored a win in the dispute after the judge ruled that she was in the wrong jurisdiction for the case to be conducted. Although, it is unclear if McKeague has since appealed against the decision.
Speaking about Azarenka’s current situation, Monfils has pledged his full support behind her. The two have been friends on the tour for years. At the 2014 US Open, Azarenka got the crowd to sing happy birthday to the Frenchman following one of her matches.
“It’s very difficult to talk about it,” Monfils told reporters in Brazil. “I do not know what to say, how can I talk?” It’s a very sad situation, involving one of my best friends, and I’m very nervous about it.”
“She’s a great mother, an unbelievable mother. It’s really, really hard, that’s what I can say.” He added.
Monfils has also backed the Belarusian to return to the court stronger than before. Since giving birth, the 28-year-old has only played two tournaments on the grass. Reaching the second round of the Mallorca Open followed by the last 16 at Wimbledon.
“What I can tell Victoria’s fans: She’s fighting, fighting, she’s a happy person, this girl is tough, a fighter, she never gives up. I hope I get her back soon.” He said.
“She has become stronger, it’s very difficult for me to comment on this situation because I’m close. That’s all I can say.”
Azarenka has a wild card to play at the upcoming BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells. Guided by new coach Slava Konikov, who was her mentor during the early stages of her career, she will be able to play at the event with her son there too. The tournament takes place in California.
As for Monfils, he is playing in this week’s Brasil Open and will get his campaign underway against Argentina’s Horacio Zeballos.
