French showman Gael Monfils is heading back to Auckland after confirmation he will join the men's draw for the 2019 ASB Classic.
Monfils was a star of the 2013 Auckland tournament, where he treated fans to one of the most memorable matches in history, defeating Tommy Haas in an epic three-set encounter.
The 32-year-old reaches as high as world number six in 2016 and has scored seven career ATP titles.
Tournament Director Karl Budge is delighted Monfils is coming back to thrill the fans again.
"We're stoked to have Monfils back at the ASB Classic this year, and we're thrilled that he's chosen to head to Auckland over defending his title at Doha," Budge said.
"He is an absolute showman, an exciting player to watch and we know he’s going to entertain the crowd.
"Gael's 2013 match against Tommy Haas is one of the most memorable in tournament history, truly epic.
"It’s become one of those iconic matches that are referred to when people are talking about the ASB Classic.
"We can't wait to see him back out on centre court."
Currently ranked 30 in the world, the 6'4 giant looks to be returning to his best form this year after winning his seventh ATP title in Doha.
He then went on to reach the final of the European Open, two more semi-finals (Argentina, Turkey) and three quarter-finals (Ecuador, Brazil and Austria).
Budge says, there’s no doubt Monfils will be one of the crowd favourites at Tennis Lane.
With John Isner, Hyeon Chung, Roberto Bautista-Agut, Tomas Berdych and now Gaël Monfils confirmed, the men’s draw is shaping up to be the most entertaining in recent times.
Newshub.
