By Erik Gudris | Wednesday, July 20, 2016

If Gael Monfils had any advice for his younger self, it would simply be "Keep going.”

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That's an appropriate piece of advice for the curent Monfils after what's been a difficult few months for the 29-year-old French veteran.

The No. 2 seeded Monfils is once again back at the Citi Open in Washington D.C. Monfils is happy to be back in a city and tournament he loves. Especially after a long layoff that kept him on the sidelines.

Monfils earned his first win in since early May with a 6-3, 6-2 victory over Yen-Hsun Lu.

"It’s been a tough months for me as a human being. I had problems with my health and to be back on the court and sweat and be a hundred percent,” Monfils said. “I think I played a solid match. I was solid with my serve. And then I was quite a bit nervous. I stand far back on the baseline today. I was surprised I can play good so with a couple of matches I hope to play better.”

Earlier in the spring, Monfils battled a virus that forced him out of this year’s French Open and kept him away from training as well.

"I had a virus for a few weeks and it was tough because I couldn’t do anything special but rest,” Monfils said. “But now I feel much better and been through a lot tests and I feel my ability so I feel much better.”

In addition, to this year’ Citi Open, Monfils is also looking forward to representing France in the upcoming Summer Games in Rio.

"For me Olympics mean so much and is a big goal for me,” Monfils said. “For me the Olympics are not just about playing but the atmosphere and to defend the colors of your country and I am happy to do so for France.”

Monfils will play Borna Coric in the next round.


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