Draper Stuns Home Favourite Monfils Under Paris Lights to Reach French Open Third Round

Jack Draper Triumphs Over Gael Monfils in Thrilling French Open clash
[Image: Draper celebrates a winning shot under the lights at Philippe Chatrier.]

Britain’s Jack Draper battled past home favorite Gael Monfils in a gripping four-set encounter at Roland Garros, securing his place in the French Open third round with a 6-3, 4-6, 6-3, 7-5 victory. The 23-year-old showcased resilience against the 38-year-old Frenchman, whose legendary flair and crowd-fueled energy made for an electrifying showdown.

Historic British Progress
Draper’s win, coupled with triumphs by Cameron Norrie and Jacob Fearnley, marks the first time in Open Era history that three British men have reached the French Open third round. Norrie and Fearnley will face each other next, guaranteeing a British presence in the fourth round for the first time since Andy Murray in 2017.

Draper’s Grit Outshines Monfils’ Magic
[Image: Monfils mid-rally, displaying his trademark athleticism.]
Monfils, a crowd darling known for his showmanship, turned Philippe Chatrier into a cauldron of noise. Despite his age, the Frenchman’s agility and creativity pushed Draper to the limit. “He’s a magician—I’m just glad I survived,” said Draper, who admitted the raucous atmosphere left him mentally drained.

The match swung dramatically: Draper dominated the first set, but Monfils roared back in the second, breaking serve with a spectacular running forehand that ignited the crowd. Tension peaked in the fourth set as Monfils, battling leg cramps, squandered a 5-2 lead. Draper seized his chance, rallying to win five consecutive games and close out the match.

Next Challenge: Brazilian Sensation Fonseca
Draper now faces 18-year-old rising star Joao Fonseca, with a potential fourth-round clash against Alexander Bublik, who upset Alex de Minaur. “These are the matches I play for,” Draper said, embracing the challenge ahead.

Monfils’ Legacy and the Night Session Spectacle
[Image: Draper and Monfils share a respectful handshake post-match.]
Monfils, a two-time Roland Garros semifinalist, has long thrived in night sessions. Days earlier, he staged a dramatic comeback after a mid-match fall, but his body faltered this time. Still, the Parisian crowd revelled in his artistry—a blend of trick shots, speed, and charisma. “He makes physics bend,” Draper quipped after a jaw-dropping net-cord winner by Monfils.

Despite the loss, Monfils’ passion resonated. His extended embrace with Draper post-match symbolized mutual respect, capping a contest that underscored why he remains a fan favorite.

Key Takeaways

• Draper’s aggressive play (59 winners) edged out Monfils’ endurance.
• British tennis celebrates a historic milestone in Paris.
• Fonseca vs. Draper promises a thrilling clash of generations.

[Image: Draper walks off court, waving to the crowd after his victory.]

With momentum building, Draper eyes deeper strides at Roland Garros, proving his mettle on one of tennis’ grandest stages.