Djokovic Dominates Monfils to Reach Brisbane Quarter-Finals

Novak Djokovic extends his dominance over Gael Monfils, winning their 20th consecutive match 6-3, 6-3 to reach the Brisbane International quarter-finals.

Novak Djokovic, 37, produced a dominant display to advance to the quarter-finals of the Brisbane International, defeating Gael Monfils 6-3, 6-3 in just 72 minutes on Thursday. With the Australian Open looming in less than two weeks, Djokovic's impressive form is a promising sign for his title ambitions.

The day also belonged to emerging talents Mirra Andreeva and Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, who showcased their skills with impressive performances. Meanwhile, Djokovic's victory over fellow veteran Monfils, 38, marked a routine win for the Serbian tennis legend, who continues to build momentum ahead of the first Grand Slam of the season.

Novak Djokovic's victory over Gael Monfils was a one-sided affair, with the Serbian tennis star always in control as he extended his winning streak against the Frenchman to 20 matches. The entertaining contest showcased Djokovic's dominance, setting him up for a quarter-final clash with American giant Reilly Opelka.

Djokovic reflected on his long-standing rivalry with Monfils, saying: “We've been playing a long time, I've known Gael since I was 15 and he was 16.” The former world number one, who is chasing a record 25th Grand Slam singles title at the upcoming Australian Open, acknowledged the pair's history of epic battles. “I've had a good score against him over the years but we've had some incredible battles on different surfaces,” Djokovic noted. Looking ahead, he expressed his hope for future encounters, saying: “Hopefully we can play some more before we both retire.”

Russian teenager Mirra Andreeva, 17, made a statement in the women's draw, dispatching Linda Noskova 6-3, 6-0 in just 63 minutes. Andreeva's impressive victory showcased her growth over the past year, and she will face Ons Jabeur of Tunisia in the quarter-finals. Meanwhile, Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard also advanced to the men's quarter-finals with a 6-4, 7-6(4) win over fourth-seeded American Frances Tiafoe.

Andreeva revealed that she had revenge on her mind after losing to Noskova at the same event last year. “Last year she (Noskova) almost killed me in the quarter-finals so I was thinking it's time to take my revenge,” Andreeva said. The Russian teenager, who began the year ranked 16th in the world, is widely tipped to contend for a Grand Slam title in 2025.

Mirra Andreeva has set her sights on breaking into the world's top 10 in 2025. “My number one goal for the 2025 season is to crack the top 10,” Andreeva stated, ambitious to build on her already impressive junior career. The 17-year-old Russian is guided by experienced coach Conchita Martinez, a former Wimbledon champion.

Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard continued his impressive run at the Brisbane International, defeating US Open semi-finalist Frances Tiafoe 6-4, 7-6(4). The 21-year-old Frenchman's powerful serving was again on display, as he fired 20 aces past Tiafoe. Mpetshi Perricard, who previously beat Australian Nick Kyrgios in a thrilling encounter, will next face 19-year-old Czech Jakub Mensik. Reflecting on his win over Tiafoe, Mpetshi Perricard said: “It was a good match, not very easy to play against Francis. The first set was very tight on serve but I managed to put some pressure on his second serve and it worked.”