Gael Monfils says the tennis community should give some time before making verdicts about the Andrey Rublev and Marat Safin partnership but he personally believes that the Russian tennis legend will be able to help with his major experience and mental game.
On Wednesday, the world No. 9 and the former two-time Grand Slam winner will start their collaboration that will last until through the entire clay season. If the test period goes well, the two will very likely stay together for the rest of 2025.
Since Rublev had a first-round bye in Monte Carlo, he had to wait to learn about his opening rival. And after Monfils overcame Fabian Marozsan, the Russian learned it would be the Frenchman.
Monfils asked what Safin could do for Rublev ahead of their Monte Carlo match
“Honestly, I don’t know. It’s difficult to say. Basically what is important is Marat’s experience. He won Grand Slams and major tournaments,” the French former world No. 6 said.
“Mentally he was extremely solid. He really liked very tight matches, and he won many of them. So he has a great experience. This is what he can bring to Rublev. I think also we’ll discover what is happening little by little. It’s a bit early maybe to talk about it. I think Marat has been coaching a top player for the first time this time, so it’s like Andy with Novak. So it’s difficult to tell right now. We need a few days, at least.”
Against Rublev, Monfils has one win and two losses. But in his matches against Safin, the Frenchman posted a perfect 4-0.
Heading into the Monte Carlo second round, the ninth-ranked Russian is riding a three-match losing streak. However, Safin’s presence will likely provide a mental boost for the 27-year-old.
It will be interesting to see if 38-year-old Monfils can claim a win on Wednesday and spoil the highly anticipated debut of the two Russians.
Tennis World USA