Monfils: "It's going to be very tough".

Gaël Monfils is reassured.

Having not won a match since losing to Grigor Dimitrov in the 3rd round of Wimbledon, the Frenchman produced a quality display to dispose of Alexei Popyrin, recent winner in Toronto (7-5, 6-3).

While this victory is undoubtedly excellent news for 'La Monf', he will now have to tackle a mountain, as a certain Carlos Alcaraz awaits him in the next round.

In comments relayed by L'Équipe, Monfils spoke of his impressions as he prepares to attempt to climb Everest: "It's bound to be very tough.

Every time I've played him, I've been unable to get in his way or put up a big fight. It's up to me to try and find something to worry him.

It's fun to play him when you're feeling good. I want to try and win games to build up my confidence.

Right now, I've won one and obviously you want to play a good player again, but not necessarily Carlos (laughs)."