Why this year’s US Open was so awesome

Unpredictable Moment #1: The weird match with Monfils

Edgy from the start, Djokovic faced a “theatrical” semifinal match with Gael Monfils, who tried an ”unorthodox” “rope-a-dope” method that was at-odds with the consistent excellent play he had exhibited all season, including his surprise Citi Open championship earlier in the summer. At times looking like he was barely in the match, or caring about it, he hung at the baseline, barely playing, and clutching his legs. Djokovic had problems with the umpire and the lights and even tore his shirt in half at one point in frustration. Monfils’ tactics were booed by the audience and called “unprofessional” by the commentators, most especially by John McEnroe. Monfils claimed he needed to try something different to compete with the world no. 1 player.

“It was a great theater experience today,” Djokovic said after his bizarre win. Monfils’ response to his tactics? “It OK, you know,” he said. “It’s not only one way to play tennis … For me, it’s just myself on the court,” he said afterwards. Gael will be Gael, and he will continue to entertain.