Gaël Monfils revels in Qatar Open win
Frenchman claims Qatar ExxonMobil Open crown at fourth time of asking
2018 Qatar Exxon Mobil Open winner Gaël Monfils has revealed his joy at winning his opening event of the year, after comprehensively beating Russian youngster Andrey Rublev. 6-2, 6-3 straight sets on Saturday evening.
This was the French player's fourth appearance in the Doha final, and having previously lost the last three finals, he eventually got the win outclassing his 20-year old opponent.
"I'm very happy. I like this tournament so much, you know. I always come back. And I was very close and finally get it. So I'm just very happy and very proud"
This was Monfils first tournament back after an injury-hit 2017, and the 31-year old revealed his delight at getting back to full fitness "It's been a while it's been a year and I was waiting for that moment to get back in shape."
"I had a long rest and come back strong in 2018 was a goal. I wouldn't say I was expecting to win the first tournament, but I'm more than happy that I did."
Looking forward to the Australian Open, Monfils revealed he was expecting a tough draw but insisted he was heading into the competition in the best possible form.
"Australia is definitely something else. It's a Slam. I played quite a lot. I know it's going to be tough because I won't be a seed. It's been a while since I played without being seeded. It's always an advantage in a Slam. It's going to be interesting to see the draw, where I will be. So I just expect a tough first round. But I think I will be well prepared to have a great tournament there."