Ugo Humbert Shocks Gaël Monfils in Dubai: A Revolt on the Court

Monfils diminished, Humbert revolts

Two confrontations less than a week apart, that’s quite rare on the circuit. Between two French players, what’s more. But Ugo Humbert did not let the bitter memory of Doha weigh on his mind for too long and he reacted well to uphold his rank as French number 1. Sharply knocked out by Gaël Monfils in Qatar, he defeated his illustrious elder on Tuesday in three sets (4-6, 6-3, 6-3) and 2h12 of play in the 1st round of the ATP 500 tournament in Dubai. In his next match, he will challenge another “veteran” so to speak, Andy Murray.

As is often the case in matches between two players of the same nationality who know each other well, Monfils and Humbert had difficulty expressing themselves well on the court at the same time. And when Messin let the first three break points slip away at 3-2, then had his serve taken before giving up the first set, we really said to ourselves that his compatriot had the psychological ascendancy. But plagued by gastric problems, “La Monf'” was less physically fit than his rival was able to exploit to reverse the dynamic. So much so that after resetting the counters to zero, the 18th in the world broke at the start of the third act.

Less mobile, tired by the rhythmic exchanges, Monfils suffered the blow (53 unforced errors!) before a final revolt at 2-1 against him on the restart. He then increased the intensity both in defense and in attack to obtain two opportunities to catch up. But Humbert warded off the danger with a superb uncrossed forehand winner first, then an inspired short backhand volley. It was the swan song for his elder who even dropped his serve one last time to conclude the game.

The precise “challenge” of Monfils

2024-02-27 13:12:00
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