"He's a magician," Draper in awe of Monfils after second-round Roland-Garros victory
Jack Draper has advanced to the third round of Roland-Garros. The British player, ranked fifth in the world, defeated Gaël Monfils in a highly entertaining match under the electric atmosphere of Court Philippe-Chatrier and will now face João Fonseca for a spot in the round of 16.
The Frenchman had two set points in the fourth set but physically faltered in the final stages of the match. Ultimately, the Brit had the last word (6-3, 4-6, 6-3, 7-5 in 3h10). On court after the match, Draper made sure to praise his opponent, whom he has now beaten twice in as many meetings.
"This is my first time on this court. It was a huge battle, an amazing experience against a player I admire as a competitor. But off the court, Gaël (Monfils) is incredibly kind.
He’s a joker, but also a magician. He does it all! Honestly, I have so much respect for him, and I hope he’ll be able to play here again in the future.
I’m starting to play more and more matches in Grand Slam tournaments. It’s not easy playing against Gaël, but also against you (addressing the Court Philippe-Chatrier crowd), no offense intended.
This is why I play tennis—to compete in front of big crowds and in intense atmospheres, whether people are for or against me," Draper said.
