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World No. 1 Novak Djokovic opened his bid for a fourth Madrid Masters title with a facile 6-3, 6-2 victory over Frenchman Gael Monfils on Tuesday. Quite expectedly, the match featured many long rallies in which both players displayed their trademark athleticism.
The two good friends did not serve up an instant classic like they did in their last meeting two years ago in Dubai, where Djokovic saved multiple match points. Instead, the Serb cruised to a straight-forward victory to move into the third round.
However, the match did feature an entertaining rally, where Monfils did most of the running but still ended up losing the point. The Frenchman hit a rather poor drop shot, allowing Djokovic to take control of the point. He then sent Monfils scurrying around the court with drops shots and lobs, with the Frenchman even producing a tweener on the run. After the Serb ended the point with a commanding volley, he exchanged smiles with Monfils, acknowledging the Frenchman's effort.
Here's a video of their incredible rally:
The Serb will take on old rival Andy Murray in the third round. The Brit beat Denis Shapovalov in three sets to set up his first meeting with Djokovic since 2017.
With Monfils win, Novak Djokovic becomes first player in Open Era to have an 18-0 record against an opponent
Novak Djokovic was far from his fluent best at the Caja Magica on Tuesday. However, against a familiar opponent whom he had beaten 17 times in as many meetings, the Serb was quick to assert his dominance.
Riding a break in the first set and two in the second, Djokovic saw off Monfils in straight sets to improve his head-to-head record against the Frenchman to 18-0. In the process, the Serb became the first player in the Open Era to beat an opponent 18 times without losing even once.
Interestingly, Djokovic's encounter with Monfils on Tuesday was only the pair's second meeting on clay. Their only other matchup on the surface came in the fourth round at Roland Garros in 2006, which the Serb also won in straight sets.
Djokovic's win over Monfils also ensured that he will remain World No. 1 for a record-extending 369th week.
The Serb is now just five wins away from entering the 1000-win club.
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