Coco Gauff's ex-coach Brad Gilbert makes feelings clear about Taylor Fritz being crushed by Gael Monfils in Australian Open 3R

Coco Gauff's ex-coach Brad Gilbert lauded the "amazing" Gael Monfils after he defeated World No. 4 Taylor Fritz in the third round of the 2025 Australian Open. Monfils went down a set early but pulled off a miraculous comeback to advance.

On Saturday, January 18, fourth-seed Fritz faced 38-year-old Monfils in what was expected to be a straightforward match for the American. However, the Frenchman made sure it was anything but easy.

Monfils, known for his serving prowess, hit Fritz with 24 aces to register a 3-6, 7-5, 7-6(1), 6-4 upset. Although he was high on unforced errors with 34, he managed to hit 58 winners in compensation. Soon after earning the winning point, the showman did a celebratory dance.

Gilbert, former coach of American tennis stars Andre Agassi and Coco Gauff, praised the Frenchman. Taking to X, he wrote:

"What amazing physical effort from La-Monf at 38 years young in very warm conditions, flying around the court takes our Fritz Carlton to move into rd of @AustralianOpen"

Days ago, Monfils became the oldest ATP Tour-level titlist in over 50 years after going all the way in Auckland. In Melbourne, he has continued his exceptional form and is now 9-1 in the 2025 season.

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Gael Monfils reflects on huge Australian Open 2025 3R upset win over Taylor Fritz

Taylor Fritz (L) and Gael Monfils at the 2025 Australian Open - Source: Getty

During his post-match interview, Gael Monfils reflected on the upset win over Taylor Fritz and becoming the third-oldest player to defeat a top-five opponent at a Grand Slam.

"The game plan was to hold the baseline and change the tempo, hit some big shots down the line and also use some shape. I did the job," Monfils said, via ATPTour. "We work hard and I try to be very disciplined with the recovery. I’m a strong believer that I can still do some damage and I have big trust in my team."

Monfils, a seasoned player with 13 ATP titles, won his 37th Australian Open battle and tied with fellow Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga for the most wins by a French player at this prestigious event.

For Fritz, his loss does not affect his ranking, as he stays at No. 4 unless Alex de Minaur wins the Australian Open.

Meanwhile, in the fourth round, Monfils will face a difficult test as he will go up against the winner of 16th seed Lorenzo Musetti and 21st seed Ben Shelton.