(COURTESY: www.atpworldtour.com)
By: Rowell Salvado, EBC Sports International, Washington DC Bureau
WASHINGTON D.C. (Eagle News) – Known for his antics and his dance moves on the court, the current number 16 in the world, Gael Monfils never disappoints. Even to those just introduced to the sport of tennis would notice that this Frenchman’s game is not the typical textbook style one would expect. Using his athleticism, Monfils is able return the ball from places normally expected to be unreturnable. He does this by using his sliding skills which he honed from his very upbringing on the clay courts introduced to the harder, less forgiving surfaces.
Unlike his counterparts who use weapons to win points, like Raonic and Isner with their serves, Federer with his SABR serve and volley, and Nadal with his superhuman retrieval skills, Monfil’s skills are present in spurts throughout his matches. Also known as Jumpin’ Jack Flash, Monfils’ only ever present weapon is his pure athleticism, evident in his catlike reflexes at the net, counterpunching everything within reach and having the strength to hit a 120mph forehand as seen in the 2007 Aussi Open.
His antics and showmanship are not without frustration. Attempts at hitting the ball between the legs and drive volleys with both feet off the ground have truly shown how gifted Sliderman is with his genetics alone, but this too is why he is so often bothered by injury.
Will Monfils ever go beyond his best of being 6th in the world? The world is ready to see a grand slam title in his hands!
(Eagle News Service)