Gael Monfils was very emotional after his first-round victory in front of the home crowd at the 2023 Roland Garros.
On Wednesday night, the French crowd, known for their fervor and loyalty, had their hopes pinned on one of their own: Gael Monfils. Despite being away from the ATP Tour since August 2022 and only having won one ATP Challenger match during this period, Monfils was ready to give it his all on his favorite Grand Slam.
After a rollercoaster match, the home crowd was on the edge of their seats as the final set of the match progressed. Baez served for the match in the tenth game, but the French crowd was not about to let their player falter.
With their cheers reverberating around the stadium, Monfils was pushed to stage a thrilling comeback. After three hours and 51 minutes, the Frenchman emerged victorious with a score of 3-6, 6-3, 7-5, 1-6, 7-5. The crowd erupted in joy as their hero had come back from the brink to snatch victory.
Monfils' emotional victory at Roland Garros was a testament to his fighting spirit and his relief was obvious once the match finished. The Frenchman was cramping on his way to the net to shake his opponent's hand, barely able to walk.
After he shook Baez's and the umpire's hands, he proceeded to thank the French crowd, falling to the ground and breaking down in tears. His first ATP-level win since August meant a lot for Monfils and he wasn't afraid to show his emotions.