Novak Djokovic improves an astonishing record as he reaches Brisbane quarter-finals with Gael Monfils win
Novak Djokovic earned a straight-set victory over world No 55 Gael Monfils to reach the quarter-finals of the 2025 Brisbane International.
The world No 7 did not lose his serve and broke Monfils three times en route to a routine 6-3, 6-3 win in the second round of the ATP 250 tournament.
In an on-court interview, Djokovic reflected on his lengthy history of playing Monfils.
“Two great competitors for a long time and in other words, two veterans of this sport (smiles). We’ve been playing for many years,” the Serbian said.
“I know Gael since I was 15, he was 16. We played quite a few matches in junior level, Tier 1 professional circuit and you know, I’ve had a good score against him over the years, but we’ve had some incredible battles on different surfaces.
“He’s one of the best, if not the best, athletes in our sport that I’ve seen over the years. Incredible, agility, flexibility, speed. Such a great player to watch, so exciting with a great character, great charisma and he attracts many fans around the world to the tennis stadium.
“So tonnes of respect for him and hopefully we can play some more before we both retire.”
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Djokovic’s latest triumph over Monfils has improved his professional record against the 38-year-old Frenchman to a staggering 20-0 — extending what is the most lopsided head-to-head record in ATP history.
The 24-time Grand Slam winner has become the only man to record 20 wins against an opponent without a single defeat.
Rafael Nadal’s 18-0 record against Richard Gasquet is the second most dominant head-to-head score in men’s tennis.
Asked what inspires him to keep going after everything he has achieved, Djokovic gave an answer that delighted the Brisbane crowd.
“I never won Brisbane International (smiles). Yeah, it’s true. Hopefully this is the year, that’s why I’m here,” the 37-year-old declared.
“I played only a couple of times, I played a tournament a long time ago back in 2009, and I played with the Serbian team in ATP Cup here I think four or five years ago.
“So I haven’t played too many times, but every time I play, it was in front of the packed stadium in front of very passionate tennis fans and I want to thank you all for your really great support and presence tonight. You’ve been amazing throughout the entire week.”
Djokovic will face huge-serving American Reilly Opelka for the first time in the quarter-finals in Brisbane on Friday.
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