Gael Monfils’ ability to captivate a tennis audience is a rare gift few players possess. While many spectators rejoice in his remarkable talent and compelling artistry of athleticism, some insist that his theatrical style detracts from the purpose of a tennis player: To win matches.
Should Monfils suppress his wild side and risk squelching the inspiration that elevates his game, or should he let the chips fall where they may?
Roger Rasheed, Monfils’ coach since 2009, recognizes his star pupil is cut from a different cloth so he approaches coaching differently. Choosing to limit Monfils’ passion and expression could prove detrimental to his game, so a strategic compromise between student and teacher is the goal.
“You think okay, what makes him tick, and how much of that element should I leave in there and what do I bring to him to take him to another level,” says Rasheed.
In a sport that rewards discipline and consistency, Monfils has paradoxically pioneered a style of play that defies old-world tennis dogma. He is wild, improvisational, and thrives on emotion. There are times, however, when Monfils is his own worst enemy.
“He just has to use good judgment,” says former touring pro and current commentator Doug Adler, adding “He doesn’t have to be a crowd pleaser all the time. It’s more about longevity and lasting in tournaments.”
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