By Chris Oddo | @Thefanchild | Sunday 6 April 2025
23 years after his debut, Richard Gasquet began his latest appearance of Monte-Carlo Rolex Masters with an emotional victory.
The 38-year-old wild card brought to Italy Matteo Arnaldi 6-3 4-6 6-4 in the fabricated central court, setting a second round collision with Felix Aumer-Aliassime or Daniel Altmaier.
“The crowd was there,” Gasquet said about the support it received from worshiping fans on Sunday. “It was a beautiful moment. The difference was that I played well at the right moment, and I was able not to break early in the third set. This was an important moment. He was starting to play better than me, and I felt a little tired, but I was able to serve well, play well, and at the end of the match, he became a little tense.
“I made good backs along the lines, beautiful shots and that was good for me. I reminded me of some shots I had played in this central court before – I was happy to extend my career a little.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jwat5C5koxk
Gasquet defeated the world No.1 Roger Federer 20 years ago in Monte-Carlo. It is his only victory over a royal world No.1.
Former World No. 7 arrived in the semifinals that year.
Gasquet, currently ranked 148, will complete his career in Roland-Garros later this spring.
“These are fabulous moments,” he said. “The court was full. The crowd was there. It is very strong moments. Onhe one of the leading tournaments in the world. It is a Sunday. You want to play well, and I have been able to do it.
“That’s why I’m very happy, and now I feel I can stay on a little more tours, so that is very important to me. I really happy to win against a young player who has a beautiful future in front of him.”
