RG Classic Match: Monfils – Murray (1st round 2006)

On 30 May 2006, the court Philippe-Chatrier was filled with the sweet scent of a golden new generation of world tennis. Making just his second appearance in the Roland-Garros main draw, 2004 junior champion Gaël Monfils faced rising British star Andy Murray, who had beaten him in Hamburg just two weeks earlier. The two 19-year-olds, both destined for great things, lived up to expectations in a thrilling battle that eventually went the Frenchman’s way. It was Monfils’ first men’s singles victory at Roland-Garros and also the first five-set win of his career, setting the tone for a magnificent run that would take the home favourite all the way to the Round of 16.