Watch: Monfils On Source of High Hops

NEW YORK—Gael Monfils is one of tennis’ leading leapers, but the flying Frenchman wasn’t inspired to new heights watching tennis.The explosive Monfils, who will face 24th-seeded Matteo Berrettini in tomorrow’s US Open quarterfinals, said his desire to elevate came from hardwood heroes Michael Jordan, Chicago Bulls teammate Dennis Rodman and Allen Iverson.More: Svitolina Sweeps Into US Open Semifinals“Never watched tennis, to be honest with you,” Monfils said. “Never watched tennis. In tennis, no. But basketball, yes. I saw couple guys.

“I used to definitely like Iverson when he was young, Michael Jordan, Dennis Rodman. Those guys, it was fun for me. I couldn't understand what they say because I couldn't speak English. My parents either. But just to see them doing what they doing was great. Yeah, that's cool.”