Australian qualifier Dane Sweeny achieved a remarkable victory by defeating veteran player Gael Monfils in the first round of the 2024 Australian Open at Melbourne Park. The match concluded with Sweeny winning 6-7 (3-7), 7-5, 6-4, 7-5, marking Sweeny’s first career win at a Grand Slam event and ending Monfils’ campaign in this year’s tournament.
Sweeny, reminiscent of Australian tennis icon Lleyton Hewitt, expressed his disbelief and gratitude after the match. “Win or lose, I just wanted to realise how lucky I was,” he stated on court. The victory not only earned him a place in the second round but also a substantial prize of $225,000.
The atmosphere in Kia Arena was electric as fans eagerly supported both players, who entered the main draw unseeded. Despite Sweeny’s low ranking of 182, the odds initially favored Monfils, who had never lost to a player ranked at this level in a Grand Slam match.
Monfils took the first set in a tense tie-break, showcasing his experience and skill. However, the match intensified as Sweeny broke Monfils’ serve in the second set, leveling the match after a grueling 146 minutes. The Australian displayed his determination by executing impressive defensive maneuvers, including a tweener shot that thrilled the crowd.
As the match progressed into the third hour, both players continued to display exceptional athleticism. Sweeny secured the third set with a powerful overhead smash, energizing the crowd further. Although Monfils took an early lead in the fourth set, fatigue began to show as Sweeny fought back to break serve twice, closing in on victory.
With two match points in his favor, Sweeny only needed one to seal the match, hitting a forehand winner down the line. In a show of sportsmanship, Monfils congratulated the young qualifier, who collapsed in sheer disbelief after his hard-fought triumph. This match marked Monfils’ 69th Grand Slam appearance, and he has announced that 2026 will be his final season on tour.
Following the match, Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley presented Monfils with a special tribute in front of the appreciative crowd. Monfils thanked the fans for their unwavering support throughout his career, leaving a lasting impression on the Melbourne audience.
Sweeny will now prepare for a challenging second-round encounter against American player Ben Shelton, who is currently ranked 8 in the world. The upcoming match promises to be another thrilling chapter in Sweeny’s burgeoning career.
