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“My Chances Are Very Low”: Gael Monfils on Defeating Novak Djokovic at Rolex Paris Masters 2021

Published 11/03/2021, 11:00 PM EDT

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via Reuters

Frenchman Gael Monfils has had some decent performances at home in Rolex Paris Masters 2021, overcoming Serbian Miomir Kecmanovic and compatriot Adrian Mannarino. However, the taxing run has taken a toll on his health. Accordingly, former World No.6 lowered his chances against his next opponent, Serbian World No.1 Novak Djokovic.

Remarkably, it will mark the 18th professional career meeting between Monfils and Djokovic. So far, the Serb is leading their head-to-head battles with a clean 17-0 record. Thus, the Frenchman, who is not feeling 100% healthy, had all the more reason to doubt his chances.

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Gael Monfils on meeting Novak Djokovic in Paris

First and foremost, Monfils revealed that he would get an X-ray to understand his health better. Hence, he is not entirely sure about whether he will take the court or not.

Besides that, the Frenchman is also aware of his record against Djokovic. Therefore, he did not shy from accepting the odds of this matchup.

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“I’m going to have an x-ray, so we’ll see how my body will react. When I’m 100% fit, I have not defeated ever Djokovic so far, so now that I’m not 100% fit, my chances are very low. I will see what decision I will make. We’ll see,” Monfils said.

via Reuters

Despite the record, the couple has had some classic encounters on the ATP Tour. Moreover, Monfils and Djokovic both have the deepest love and respect for one another.

Additionally, the duo also has the game to beat the best of the players on their peak day. And in tennis, only the better player on the given day wins, not statistics.

Watch this story: Moments of Kindness by Tennis Stars Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Others

Djokovic chasing multiple records at Rolex Paris Masters 2021

On the other side of Monfils, Djokovic is more determined than ever about making history in their aspect of the sport. Earlier, the Serb exceeded Roger Federer to make the all-time record in Most Wins as ATP No.1.

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USA Today via Reuters

Furthermore, the 34-year-old is looking forward to becoming the only player to clinch the year-end World No.1 spot for a record-breaking seven times. He could confirm it with a title or doing better than his new-rival Daniil Medvedev in Paris.

Besides, Djokovic is also hot-favorite for winning the Rolex Paris Masters 1000 for a record-extending sixth time. However, every single match is a different challenge and only time will tell if he goes through all of that or not.

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Do you think Djokovic will win the Paris title this year?

WATCH: Daniil Medvedev Sends Salty Kisses to Disrespectful Crowd at Rolex Paris Masters 2021

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Written by:

Purav Joshi

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Purav Joshi is a Senior 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 1000 tennis articles.
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