Tennis: Gael Monfils set to return to ASB Classic

Gael Monfils is back to the ASB Classic. Photo / Getty

One of the most entertaining players on the ATP tour is returning to Auckland.

Charismatic Frenchman Gael Monfils, known for his acrobatics and ability to hit winners from anywhere on the court, has been confirmed as part of the 2019 field at Stanley Street.

Monfils is currently ranked No30 in the world, but was as high as No 6 two years ago.

The 32-year-old has reached the last four at the US Open and Roland Garros, and has made the quarter-finals at six other occasions at Grand Slams.

Monfils has graced the ASB Classic on two previous occasions. He lost in the first round in 2007, but lit up the tournament in 2013.

He came back from a set down to beat Benjamin Becker in the first round, then outlasted Tommy Haas 3-6 7-5 6-3 in the late night quarter-final, in a match that is still regarded as one of the best in the tournament's history.

"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, said tournament director Karl Budge. "He is an absolute showman, an exciting player to watch and we know he's going to entertain the crowd. Gaël's 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."

Monfils took his 7th ATP title in Doha this year. He has also reached the final of the European Open and two more semifinals (Argentina, Turkey).

Former Auckland champions John Isner and Roberto Bautista-Agut, along with grand slam finalist Tomas Berdych and young Korean Hyeon Chung are other names confirmed for the men's events, which runs from January 7-12.