Novak Djokovic vs. Gael Monfils

In one corner, we have a strong veteran of the tour who is playing the best tennis of his career.  In the other corner, we have the world #1, defending champion, and a man who is undefeated versus his opponent in ATP Tour and ITF matches.

Monfils is playing great tennis this summer with his solid play in Toronto and Rio added to this semifinal run and title in Washington, DC.  The biggest problem Monfils faces is that he matches up terribly with Novak Djokovic.  Novak can play defensively and can counter-punch in a manner that neutralizes much of Monfils’ best strengths.  I think their head-to-headhead-to-head (Monfils’ sole win came at a futures event more than a decade ago) speaks to how well Novak matches up with Gael Monfils.  So long as Novak’s injuries are under control, he should win this match.

My Prediction: Novak Djokovic d. Gael Monfils – 6-2, 6-7, 6-3, 6-2

Confidence in my pick – Moderately high (if Novak were known to be healthy my confidence would be high but injuries always throw some doubt into the picture)