Gael Monfils made history by becoming the oldest ATP Tour singles title winner at the ASB Classic in Auckland.
The 38-year-old Frenchman, who won his first tour crown 20 years ago, defeated Zizou Bergs in the final 6-3, 6-4.
He overtook Roger Federer, who won his last title in Basel in 2019, as the oldest champion since the ATP Tour was founded in 1990.
He is also the oldest man to win a tour-level singles title since 43-year-old Australian Ken Rosewall in Hong Kong in 1977.
“A lot of satisfaction,” said Monfils, who ranks 52nd. “It’s special to have my 13th title. I don’t win much. I have been playing for over 20 years and have only won 13 times.”
On her place in history, the former top 10 star added: “It’s a different record. You’re always happy about a record, but I want to do more, I want to play a little more, so why not win the prize a little later.”
In the first round of the Australian Open, Monfils will face his compatriot Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, who is 17 years his junior.
Watch the ATP and WTA tournaments as well as the US Open in New York live on Sky Sports in 2025 or stream with NOW and Sky Sports appgiving Sky Sports customers access to over 50 per cent more live sporting events this year at no additional cost. Find out more here.
