The qualifications for the Monte-Carlo Masters 1000 2026 delivered their final verdicts on Sunday, just before the tournament’s start. Several French players, such as Alexandre Muller, tried to secure the last available spots. The day also marked the end of the journey for David Goffin, who was defeated after a long battle.
The start of the Monte-Carlo Masters 1000 came along with the final matches of the qualifications. It was a packed day, highlighted by contrasting paths for French, Belgian, and South American players. Alexandre Muller led the way for France. The Parisian beat Matteo Arnaldi after a match in three stages. A solid start, an opponent’s comeback, and a close final set shaped this victory (6-1/5-7/6-4). The first round of the main draw will feature a French duel against Corentin Moutet, a much-anticipated meeting for two players used to intense contests.
The day was tougher for David Goffin. The Belgian, ranked 179th in the world, lost in three sets to Emilio Nava. The score (6-3/6-7 [6]/7-6 [2]) reflects a 2-hour and 44-minute-long battle. This effort was not enough for an eleventh participation in the Monaco tournament. The Liège native’s career had notable moments on the Rock, including a semifinal in 2017 after a remarkable victory against Novak Djokovic.
However, Belgium found a reason for satisfaction. Alexandre Blockx, 20 years old, secured his place in the main draw with a 7-6, 6-2 win over Damir Dzumhur. This performance confirms the young player’s progress, an encouraging trend for Belgian tennis seeking continuity.
The qualifications were also favorable for several Argentinians. Francisco Comesana defeated Ethan Quinn in straight sets. Juan Manuel Cerundolo did the same against Pedro Martinez. Cristian Garin overcame Nikoloz Basilashvili, while Alexander Shevchenko eliminated Roberto Bautista-Agut.
Main Draw News
The day also brought bad news for the French camp. Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard withdrew due to wrist pain. It was a cautious decision less than two months before Roland-Garros. The start of the season remains challenging for the 22-year-old player. The American tour ended with two early exits at Indian Wells and Miami. Just one win since January 14, after a quarterfinal in Auckland against Cameron Norrie. The period is difficult, especially after the sudden departure of his coach Francisco Roig.
An uplift came from Gaël Monfils. The 39-year-old Frenchman won an animated match against Tallon Griekspoor. The score (6-7 [7], 6-1, 6-4) reflects an irregular but eventful duel. A victory that extends the Monégasque adventure for a last announced participation. The next round will feature a clash with Alexander Bublik, an unpredictable player promising a unique spectacle.
The last match of the day saw Moïse Kouamé against Ugo Humbert. The 17-year-old, ranked 328th in the world, put up a spirited fight. Nevertheless, Ugo Humbert concluded the match (6-3/7-5). This match-up hints at Kouamé’s interesting potential, still in the learning phase but already capable of challenging a top 40 player.
The day also saw Cameron Norrie pass the first round after a lengthy and contested match against Miomir Kecmanovic. The Brit eventually won (6-2/4-6/7-6[7]). A challenging transition to the European clay season, following a series of strong performances in recent weeks. Alejandro Tabilo also secured his spot in the second round with a victory (6-4/6-3) over Marton Fucsovics.
The remainder of the first round will take place tomorrow in Monaco. The Monegasque Valentin Vacherot will face Juan Manuel Cerundolo. The Brazilian Joao Fonseca will meet Gabriel Diallo in a Next Gen duel. Francisco Cerundolo will challenge Stefanos Tsitsipas, a former tournament finalist. On the French side, Arthur Rinderknech will start the day against Karen Khachanov. Adrian Mannarino will face Zizou Bergs.
