Novak Djokovic sets-up Brisbane quarter-final against Reilly Opelka by beating Gael Monfils
Novak Djokovic kept alive his hopes of winning the 100th career ATP title with an easy 6-3 6-3 victory over Gael Monfils in the last 16 of the Brisbane International.
The 37-year-old Serbian will face Riley Opelka in the quarterfinals, as the U.S. defeated Italy’s Matteo Arnaldi 7-6 (11-9) 7-6 (7-4). .
Djokovic grabbed his only break point opportunity in the first set, helping him lead 4-1 and win the set in 36 minutes.
Monfils, 38, missed a simple forehand on serve at 1-1 and the Frenchman failed to score a point the rest of the way, with Djokovic breaking early in the second set.
After that, Djokovic held serve three times and broke Monfils again at 5-3, ending his 20th career victory against the Frenchman.
Opelka awaits Djokovic in the quarterfinals, where the two will meet for the first time.
The 24-time Grand Slam winner said he had to adjust his game to deal with the American’s big serve, which had 25 aces against Analdi.
“Opelka was injured and he’s been struggling the past few years,” Djokovic said.
“Gosh, I might have to take a few steps back before I can serve.”
