France's Gaël Monfils surpassed Roger Federer's title for the oldest player to win an ATP event, capturing his crowning moment at Auckland's ASB Classic.
Monfils, 38, defeated Belgium's Zizou Bergs 6-3 6-4, marking an extraordinary four consecutive matches without dropping serve.
Although the talented showman is nearing the end of his career, at 38 years and 132 days, he overtook Federer's record of 38 years and 74 days when he clinched an ATP title in his home city of Basel.
Click here to watch live tennis on Stan Sport.
Adding to the achievement, Monfils is also the oldest player to feature in the top-100, sitting at No.41 in the world.
"It means a lot," Monfils said after winning his 13th title in 20 years.
"But we keep working. I keep believing that I can play high-quality tennis, and I have been showing it this week, so I am very happy.
"[My first title] was 20 years ago. I still have the passion to play tennis. I feel I [can] still strike the ball very well.
"Hopefully, many more to come."
Monfils will now prepare to tackle a different challenge, this time against big-serving compatriot Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in the Australian Open first-round on Tuesday.
Game4padel is leading the way in the growth of Padel tennis in Australia. Check them out at game4padel.com.au for club locations, corporate event opportunities and special offers.
Comentários