Fans serenade Monfils on his 40th birthday

Gael Monfils, the flamboyant French tennis player, turned 40 by celebrating a highly memorable victory at the US Open. The final match of his career saw Monfils triumph over Paraguayan player Adolfo Daniel Vallejo with a scoreline of 2-6, 6-1, 6-2, 6-0. Known for his lively court presence, Monfils made his special day even more remarkable when the New York crowd spontaneously sang Happy Birthday during his post-match interview.

Monfils, the former world number six, claimed the distinction of being the oldest man to win a US Open main-draw match since Jimmy Connors did so in 1992. Reflecting on the occasion, he stated, "To play on my 40th birthday is very special." The energy in New York was electric, and Monfils expressed his delight, "You guys rock - let's keep it up for the second round."

Despite a shaky start facing a 60th-ranked opponent, Monfils quickly regained his composure and dominated the following three sets to clinch his 131st Grand Slam match win, setting a record for a Frenchman. He attributed his success to his versatile play, particularly his versatile backhand and forehand usage. The charismatic Monfils concluded, "I didn't want to lose the first round, that's for sure.

Somehow, I felt like even with a sloppy start, I could do better. I kept going for my shots, being versatile with my backhand, tried to use my forehand. My rhythm was there, and then I had this feeling where I could be in cruise control." Monfils will conclude his farewell appearance at Flushing Meadows against American 14th seed Learner Tien.