In tennis, debates about the greatest player of all time often dominate the headlines. But another intriguing topic for fans and players alike is building the “perfect player” by blending the best attributes from legends across generations. Gael Monfils recently joined the conversation, constructing his ideal tennis player with skills handpicked from the game’s most iconic athletes.
In a video released by the ATP Tour in 2023, the French star was tasked with building his ideal tennis player by combining the best attributes from the top players in history.
From the start, Monfils made it clear that Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, and Rafael Nadal would feature prominently in his perfect player. However, he also drew inspiration from a diverse and intriguing selection of players across all eras.
Monfils’ ultimate tennis player
Serve
When it came to the serve, most players tend to choose taller athletes, and Monfils was no exception. The Frenchman opted for Australian Nick Kyrgios’ serve. “I feel his serve is so pure, so smooth. Easy power, accuracy, unreal. Second serve, first serve,” Monfils noted.
Forehand
For the forehand, Monfils opted for the explosive power of 2018 US Open champion Juan Martín del Potro. “Del Potro’s forehand was fast, heavy, very accurate. He wasn’t missing that much,” Monfils explained. “He could hit it from anywhere on the court with that weapon, so yeah, 100% I will take his”.
Backhand
For the backhand, Monfils turned to Novak Djokovic, selecting a signature element of the Serbian’s game. “I feel Novak’s backhand is almost perfect. He can hit every part of the court. The speed, the control he has—it’s unreal. Yeah, definitely Novak’s backhand,” Monfils stated.
Slice
For this attribute, the Frenchman chose Roger Federer, one of the best players at executing a slice. “Roger, it’s a very pure slice. He can slow down, he can speed it up, the accuracy is a joke. 100% Roger,” Monfils said.
Speed
Though many expected Monfils to name himself here, the Frenchman gave the nod to Spanish sensation Carlos Alcaraz. “I don’t take myself (laughs). I will take Carlos Alcaraz. I think his speed is insane—the power he develops, the change of direction,” Monfils remarked.
Net game
When it came to net play, Monfils struggled to choose among three iconic players but ultimately landed on Australian Pat Rafter. “It’s a tough one because I have three names straight away in my mind: Pat Rafter, Stefan Edberg, and Michael Llodra. I will go with Pat Rafter. I mean, amazing at the net. Super physical, tough to get through,” Monfils decided.
Mental toughness
For the final piece of his ultimate player, Monfils turned to Rafael Nadal, emphasizing the Spaniard’s mental resilience. “Rafa, crazy. Over the years, he’s shown us how strong he is in the toughest moments, even playing through pain,” Monfils explained.