“It’s Not the First Time”: Gael Monfils Defends Dancing Moves After Receiving Warning Against John Isner

Power-packed tennis action continues to treat fans, courtesy of some breathtaking entertainment. Down to our television sets all the way from Canada, the National Bank Open has been nothing less than a fun-filled tournament so far. Even as the competition edges closer to its final days, players grace the courts with their antics and dynamics. In particular, Gael Monfils was the star of the show at his quarter-final outing against John Isner.

French international Gael Monfils is famous for his charismatic personality on-court. Not just his exuberant tennis display but also for being his unapologetic self, fans’ relish over his outings. Returning from a splendid break, he took on America’s John Isner, for a place in the semi-finals.

However, his performance might not have been the best, but despite losing breakpoints, he won hearts with his break-dance. Although, not everyone was a fan, as drama came following, courtesy of his moves.

When facing one of the best serves of all time, you gotta be prepared to try something different @Gael_Monfils #NBO21 pic.twitter.com/XYeArHLXDU

— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) August 14, 2021

When his actions were objected, Monfils pointed out, “It’s not the first time he’s seen me do that.”

“I was not disrespectful”- Gael Monfils

The quarter-final clash between the two giants had just about everything. The entertainer that Monfils is, was at display in its truest form. However, while fans upheld his antics, the chair umpire wasn’t having any of it.

Wait a minute — Mo was inconsistent there when talking to Cedric. He gave @Gael_Monfils a TIME warning, but he then told Cedric he warned Monf because he was bouncing too much and being unprofesh. The bouncing may be frowned-upon, but it’s not illegal. Need clarification.

— Brett Haber (@BrettHaber) August 14, 2021

Monfils was seen dancing during Isner’s serve. Although light-hearted, he was handed a penalty for the same. The French professional was in utter disbelief over the decision of the umpire. He said, “I play for pleasure. I play for the fans. I was not disrespectful.” 

“I play for pleasure. I play for the fans. I was not disrespectful”.

— José Morgado (@josemorgado) August 14, 2021

Naturally, the 34-year-old lost all composure over the umpire’s unruly decision. Taking a break, he further went on to call his physio. It was evidently clear that the French needed some time to cool off, as he struggled to process the penalty.

Now Gael calls the physio.

— José Morgado (@josemorgado) August 14, 2021

His disagreement showed as a dip in his form, as he bowed out of the tournament, eventually.

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A disappointing evening for Gael

Throughout the tournament, Gael played in sublime touch, looking at his reasonable best. He paved his way to the quarters, courtesy of some epic displays, entertaining the crowd with this unorthodox tennis. However, he failed to replicate the same form against his American counterpart, with the umpire not making it easy for him.

It’s Gael’s time to shine

RIDICULOUS, and we’re not worthy, @Gael_Monfils #NBO21 pic.twitter.com/wojV5PBjv7

— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) August 14, 2021

Gael lost the game in straight sets, failing to progress into the semis. Regardless, his fine display of tennis will be remembered by Canadian fans for long. Watching the unorthodox back in action was like a breath of fresh air. However, will his antics get the better of him at the Western and Southern Open or will fans witness a lesson learned new Monfils?

Read more: Gauff, Bencic, Halep, and More: Naomi Osaka’s Road to Western & Southern Open 2021 Final

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