Gael Monfils said after his shock first-round exit at last year’s Australian Open that he had “no confidence” and “would like to get out of this nightmare”.
Almost 12 months later, the Frenchman has breezed through his second-round Australian Open clash and made an emphatic declaration.
“I’m back.”
AS IT HAPPENED: Frenchman’s mid-match selfie backfires
READ MORE: Kyrgios and Murray baffled as ‘irritating’ chant engulfs Australian Open
READ MORE: Djokovic facing $42 million problem
Monfils spoke with his trademark swagger after putting on the most entertaining of shows in a 6-1 6-0 6-4 victory over Kazakhstani Alexander Bublik at Margaret Court Arena.
The 11-title superstar was the victim of the first major upset in last year’s Australian Open, when he was ranked 11th in the ATP but slumped to the world No.86 of the time.
He lost in five sets to Finland’s Emil Ruusuvuori and broke down in tears in his post-match press conference.
The Monfils turning out for this year’s Melbourne Park major is the Monfils the tennis world has come to know and love since he became professional at the age of 17, in 2004.
The 35-year-old began his Australian Open campaign with a straight-sets win over Argentine Federico Coria and backed it up with his second-round defeat of Bublik, setting up a duel with Chilean Cristian Garin.
Monfils was at his flamboyant best in the second round, covering the court like an acrobat and pulling off two spectacular tweeners.
Nicholas Monroe labelled the first tweener “scandalous” and Nine co-commentator Garry Wilkinson branded it “exhibition tennis”.
He wrapped up victory in a tick under 90 minutes and then stood up to the microphone for his on-court interview, clearly rapt with the style of play he had just unfurled.
Stream every match, every court of the Australian Open live and free on 9Now.
“I felt great. Moving very fast (it) was tough for him to get through me, serving great, hit powerful shots, couple of trick shots. Everything’s good, you know? I’m on,” a smirking Monfils said to cheers and whistles from the crowd.
“I had a tough time and now I really feel I’m good, great, strong.
“You know, guys: I’m back, I’m back.”
When Monfils was asked if he was ready for “the challenge that lies ahead”, the effervescent showman couldn’t have given a more convincing answer.
“Always ready,” he assured.
“Born ready.”