Gaël Monfils stunned Taylor Fritz on January 18, winning 3-6 7-5 7-6(1) 6-4 after three hours and eight minutes of play.

What happened?

Monfils' victory was a near-perfect performance of skill, power, and wit, with the Frenchman's serve being an unstoppable weapon at times.

Fritz was unable to get to grips with Monfils' varied game from the baseline, leading to the American's defeat.

Why it matters for Gaël Monfils

The 38-year-old Monfils becomes the second-oldest male player in history to reach the fourth round of the Australian Open since the tournament moved to Melbourne Park in 1988.

This achievement is a testament to Monfils' enduring talent and dedication to the sport, with the Frenchman enjoying an incredible run to start his 22nd season on the tour.

What comes next?

Monfils will face American Ben Shelton in the fourth round on Monday, with the Frenchman looking to continue his impressive form.

Despite his early success in 2025, Monfils doesn't believe he's a contender to win the Australian Open, with his focus on enjoying the experience and competing at a high level.

Monfils sealed his victory with a booming ace, his 24th of the match, and celebrated with a shimmy and a dance on-court, drawing huge cheers from the crowd.

The Frenchman's wife, Elina Svitolina, was inspired by his win and went on to defeat the women's world No. 4, Jasmine Paolini, in her own match.

Monfils watched Svitolina's win from her players' box, with the Ukrainian 28th seed coming from a set down to win 2-6 6-4 6-0 and reach the fourth round.

Svitolina said, "It was a crazy battle. I got inspired after my husband's win."

Monfils told reporters, "I felt good. I felt in this moment I wanted to do that (dance), I wanted to be myself."

The Frenchman's dream is to have an unbelievable family, with tennis being a part of his life but not the only focus.

Monfils won the ASB Classic in Auckland last week, becoming the oldest player to ever win an ATP Tour title.

The Australian Open continues on Monday, with Monfils facing Ben Shelton in the fourth round.