Mon Jan 20 06:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Veteran Monfils Stuns Fritz, Joins Elite Australian Open Club
**MELBOURNE, Australia** – Gael Monfils, 38, achieved a remarkable feat at the Australian Open, becoming only the second man since 1988 to reach the fourth round at age 38 or older. His thrilling 3-6, 7-5, 7-6 (1), 6-4 victory over fourth seed Taylor Fritz on Saturday saw him punctuate the win with a 134 mph ace and a celebratory dance, sending Margaret Court Arena into a frenzy.
Monfils, who started the season by winning a title in Auckland, overcame a 12-match losing streak against top-five players at Grand Slams. He attributed his success to hard work, discipline, and self-belief, acknowledging a degree of luck in reaching the second week of the tournament. He will next face 22-year-old Ben Shelton.
Fritz, hampered by a right foot injury during the match, became the highest-seeded player to exit the men’s draw. The match also showcased Monfils’ impressive tennis, with 58 winners to 34 unforced errors.
Adding to the family’s success, Monfils’ wife, Elina Svitolina, also won her match later that day, defeating Jasmine Paolini. “I warmed up the court for her,” Monfils joked.
Meanwhile, the younger generation also made its mark. American teenagers Learner Tien and Alex Michelsen both reached the fourth round in their major debuts, joining Shelton in a strong showing for young US players. Tien upset No. 5 Daniil Medvedev earlier in the tournament. Michelsen followed up his first-round victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas by defeating Karen Khachanov. Top seed Jannik Sinner also advanced, setting up a clash with Holger Rune.
First Piper 