Tien's Touching Request: Autograph from Monfils After Montreal Win
After a roller-coaster three-set battle, the real emotion came post-match when 20-year-old Tien asked the retiring Monfils to sign a ball as a memento.
Learner Tien experienced a special evening at the Montreal Masters 1000. The young American advanced to the third round by defeating Gaël Monfils in three sets (6-3, 0-6, 6-3), in a match marked by the ups and downs of both players.
A beautiful moment between two generations
But the most remarkable moment came after the match point. Aware that the Frenchman is playing his final season on the tour before retiring at the end of the year, Tien approached Monfils at the end of the match with a special request.
The 20-year-old pulled out a ball and asked Monfils to autograph it, wanting to keep a memento of this encounter against one of the most popular figures in world tennis.
Moved by the gesture, Monfils obliged before the two men exchanged a warm embrace, offering a beautiful image of respect between two generations.
An emotional moment that reminded everyone of the immense legacy the Frenchman will leave on the ATP tour.
The Montreal tournament also presented Monfils with a trophy after the match and played a video of his exploits in Canada to honor his career.
