Gael Monfils clarified his stance after his heated match against Felix Auger-Aliassime at the 2023 Laver Cup.
The opening day of the Laver Cup already saw some drama on the tennis court in Vancouver, and it wasn't because of Team World's clean sweep, winning all four matches on the opening day. The drama happened during the match between Felix Auger-Aliassime and Gael Monfils.
The 37-year-old Frenchman, known as one of the best entertainers on the ATP Tour, was also trying to entertain the crowd in Vancouver, but his efforts were not met with a lot of understanding from his Canadian opponent.
Auger-Aliassime felt that the rules were not followed, as he thought that his opponent was taking too much time, and also, that he was not taking the event seriously enough. Monfils seems to completely disagree with that narrative, and he took to social media to share his point of view.
"I am tired of these incessant and futile controversies. Some people seem to get excited over trifles. I am annoyed by those who make hasty judgments. Some might think that because I smile and have fun, I'm not serious. Sure, my vision may be different, but I always strive to follow the guidelines given to me."
Monfils, who became a father recently, emphasized that he wouldn't travel all the way to Vancouver, if he didn't want to take the event seriously, especially since he now has a family.
"At 37, I just try to make the most of every moment. When I was asked to participate in the Laver Cup, I was honored. With my current ranking, outside the top 100 at this age, I even thought it was a joke. But I take this opportunity very seriously, for the event, for my team and especially for me. Traveling to Vancouver and leaving my family again is not the easiest thing."
"But, despite everything, I continue to practice my profession with passion and sincerity, as I have always done. And, without tongue in cheek, I must admit that I am very well paid for this and that the conditions are exceptional."
The Frenchman knows that it's impossible to please everyone, but he states that he's happy and fulfilled, and at the end of the day, that's all that matters. Moreover, he added that he wants to see his team win, and maybe he'll still get a shot to help to achieve that.
"I know, some will say that I have accomplished nothing, that I am a clown... But the truth is that I am happy and fulfilled. I want to say that the Laver Cup is a fantastic event, and I plan to make the most of the end of my weekend. Let's go Team Europe, let's catch up Team World!"
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