The Ultimate Tennis Showdown (UTS) was underway in Frankfurt last week. Andrey Rublev took on Gael Monfils, in his UTS debut, but the biggest talking point around their encounter was the Frenchman. What Monfils lacked with the racket, he made up for it by entertaining the crowds.
Gael has always been one of the most entertaining players on the tennis circuit. During his prime, Monfils’ athleticism was his biggest advantage and could awe fans with his unconventional shots.
Monfils was back to being his entertaining best once again at the Süwag Energie Arena. Despite losing the match to Rublev, Gael charmed fans with his efforts to keep things lighthearted. At one point Gael busted out his dancing skills, and Rublev could not help but appreciate it.
Gael Monfils was break dancing at UTS.
Andrey Rublev was absolutely loving it.
If you pay to watch a Gael match, you know you’re going to see so much more than just tennis. ❤️
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) September 20, 2023
Rublev dashed Gael’s hopes of making it to the semifinals of the UTS this year. Despite it, the Frenchman tried to get Rublev to dance a few steps.
Such was the entertainment, fans could not help but enjoy it to the fullest. One user even mentioned Nick Kyrgios, who is well-known for his on-court antics. They commented, “Monfils and Kyrgios represent the tennis we love.” Here are a few reactions to Monfils break dancing on the court.
Monfils the smooth operator with his dance moves. No wonder Svitlana fell for him ❤️
— Deon ⛩ (@DeonteDen) September 20, 2023
No cap monfils and kyrgios represent the tennis we love
— Shamil (@0xShamils) September 20, 2023
Most entertaining tennis player by far
— Alec Jerauld (@alecjerauld2) September 20, 2023
While the match descended into mayhem eventually, it started off quite tense. But in the end, Rublev prevailed over Gael Monfils to make it to the semifinals of the UTS.
Gael Monfils was awarded the shot of the year
The match started off very competitive. Rublev raced ahead to lead Monfils 7-2, with the Frenchman committing several unforced errors, before he found his rhythm.
While Rublev went on to win the quarter and eventually the match, Monfils struck, what was easily the shot of the year. Andrey served the ball out wide, but Monfils was quick to hit a monstrous forehanded slap. It flew past Rublev, who could not believe his eyes.
Gael was awarded the Zenith Best Shot award at UTS Frankfurt for his splendid strike against Rublev. The French star was handed a watch for his awe-inspiring shot.
Gael Monfils has had a long career, even though it has been halted by injuries at every turn. He can still inspire magic on the tennis court, just like he did in Frankfurt.
