Felix Auger-Aliassime overcame a first-set tiebreak loss to defeat Gael Monfils 6-7(5), 6-3, 6-4 in the Round of 64 at the 2026 ATP Indian Wells on Saturday. The Canadian fired 14 aces and won 81% of first-serve points to advance past the veteran Frenchman.
After dropping a tight opening set in which neither player faced a break point, Auger-Aliassime seized control in the second. He broke Monfils twice while holding serve comfortably, capitalizing on his superior first-serve effectiveness. Monfils struggled to find his rhythm on return, converting none of his two break opportunities across the entire match.
The decisive third set saw Auger-Aliassime maintain his momentum. Though Monfils kept the score respectable with aggressive shot-making — he finished with 32 winners — the 39-year-old couldn’t crack the Canadian’s serve when it mattered. Auger-Aliassime’s clinical break-point conversion (2 of 5) proved the difference, allowing him to close out the match in just under two and a half hours.
Key Takeaways
- Auger-Aliassime’s first serve was dominant at 81% points won, outpacing Monfils’ 74% despite serving at a lower percentage (65% vs 71%).
- Break-point conversion proved decisive: Auger-Aliassime converted 2 of 5 opportunities while Monfils failed to convert either of his two chances.
- The match featured high-quality serving with 26 aces combined, but Auger-Aliassime’s 14 aces edged Monfils’ 12 in the power-hitting contest.
- Monfils kept the match competitive with impressive shot-making (32 winners to 34) and fewer unforced errors (21 to 30), but couldn’t find the crucial break when needed.
Player Analysis
Felix Auger-Aliassime
The Canadian’s serve carried him through this comeback victory. His 81% first-serve points won is elite territory, and crucially, he delivered his best tennis when facing break points — he saved both opportunities Monfils created. While his 30 unforced errors were higher than ideal, Auger-Aliassime showed impressive composure after losing a tight first-set tiebreak. His ability to win 98 total points to Monfils’ 91 reflects the small margins that separated these two.
The nine-time tour titlist demonstrated tactical maturity by not overplaying after the opening-set disappointment. He waited for his chances on return, converted two of his five break points, and leaned on his power game when necessary. The 14 aces kept Monfils guessing throughout.
Gael Monfils
The 39-year-old Frenchman produced a spirited effort despite the loss. His 12 aces and 32 winners demonstrate he still possesses the firepower to compete at this level, and his 71% first-serve percentage was actually superior to Auger-Aliassime’s. Monfils kept his unforced-error count low at 21, showing disciplined shot selection.
The critical failing was on break points: 0 for 2 conversion meant Monfils never truly threatened Auger-Aliassime’s serve after the first set. His second-serve return struggled to penetrate, allowing the Canadian to hold with relative comfort in sets two and three. While Monfils competed gamely, he couldn’t manufacture the breakthrough moments needed to extend his Indian Wells run.
Match Statistics
| Felix Auger-Aliassime | Stat | Gael Monfils |
|---|---|---|
| 14 | Aces | 12 |
| 4 | Double Faults | 5 |
| 65% | 1st Serve % | 71% |
| 81% | 1st Serve Points Won | 74% |
| 59% | 2nd Serve Points Won | 65% |
| 2/5 | Break Points Won | 0/2 |
| 34 | Winners | 32 |
| 30 | Unforced Errors | 21 |
| 98 | Total Points Won | 91 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of Felix Auger-Aliassime vs Gael Monfils at Indian Wells 2026?
Felix Auger-Aliassime defeated Gael Monfils 6-7(5), 6-3, 6-4 in the Round of 64 at the 2026 ATP Indian Wells on March 7.
How many aces did Felix Auger-Aliassime hit against Gael Monfils?
Auger-Aliassime recorded 14 aces in the match, while Monfils hit 12 aces.
What was the break point conversion rate in the Auger-Aliassime Monfils match?
Felix Auger-Aliassime converted 2 of 5 break points (40%), while Gael Monfils failed to convert either of his 2 break point opportunities.
Who won the first set between Felix Auger-Aliassime and Gael Monfils at Indian Wells?
Gael Monfils won the first set 7-6(7-5) in a tiebreak before Auger-Aliassime rallied to win the next two sets.
What’s Next
Auger-Aliassime advances to the Round of 32, where he will face the winner of the upcoming match in this section of the draw. The Canadian will look to carry forward his strong serving form deeper into the tournament.
Follow all results: ATP Indian Wells 2026.
Head-to-head history: Felix Auger-Aliassime vs Gael Monfils.
