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“Big Inspiration”: Gael Monfils Thanked Roger Federer After Weekend Practice Ahead of French Open 2021

Published 05/24/2021, 12:47 AM EDT

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20-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer is currently amid his preparations for the nearing French Open 2021. For this, he played at the ATP 250 Geneva, his only clay-court appearance in more than two years.

Unexpectedly, the Swiss maestro lost in his opening match; however, he enjoyed playing on his home soil again. Hence, he stayed back to practise, and to his pleasure, French World No.15 Gael Monfils joined him.

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The duo worked on the court over the weekend and took upon some fun challenges. Ultimately, it was time well spent for both of them.

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Gael Monfils happy to see Roger Federer back on the court

Inarguably, Monfils is one of the friendliest and the most fun players in tennis. However, just like Federer, the Frenchman has also had a rough 2021 season.

Thus, in an attempt to get ready for Paris, both spent some quality time hitting balls. Also, they are both working on finding their winning ways back on the ATP Tour.

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Primarily, a weekend spent on the tennis court with Federer is surreal in itself. But definitely, Monfils also did everything to make the time more exceptional.

Funnily enough, the Frenchman shared a story holding ‘Globi and Roger’, a kid’s book with the Swiss maestro’s character. “Guess what happened??” Monfils wrote on his Instagram story with two laughing with tears emoticons.

Furthermore, the 10 ATP titles winner shared a message of appreciation for Federer. “Thank you, Roger Federer, for this weekend, always a pleasure to share the court with you. You are a big inspiration on and off the court. Happy to see you back on court,” Monfils tweeted with a goat icon.

While the 2009 French Open champion will now move to Paris, the 2008 semifinalist will play alongside World No.1 Novak Djokovic in Belgrade. Moreover, they will take many positives from the weekend. 

Federer’s chances at the French Open 2021

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There is no question about the Swiss maestro carrying a bit of rust in his game. However, Roland-Garros 2021 will give him the much-needed kick to come back on track.

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All the more, Federer confessed that he is not playing French Open to win but to get match-ready for Wimbledon. Let us see how long the tennis legend survives against the younger generation in Paris.

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Written by:

Purav Joshi

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Purav Joshi is a Tennis author at EssentiallySports. Having a degree in Films, Television and Media Production, he guided his passion for writing and journalism into the sport of aces and rallies. With over 2 years of experience as a copywriter, Purav has authored over 500 tennis articles.
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