Gael Monfils marked his 40th birthday by winning his first-round match at the US Open, defeating Paraguay's Adolfo Daniel Vallejo 2-6 6-1 6-2 6-0 in what is set to be his final appearance at the tournament before retirement. The Frenchman's victory made him the oldest man to win a US Open main-draw match in 34 years, since Jimmy Connors achieved the same feat on his own 40th birthday in 1992. The crowd added to the occasion by singing "Happy Birthday" during his on-court interview, capping an emotional night for the fan favourite.

After a shaky start against the world number 60, Monfils recovered to dominate the remaining three sets, claiming his 131st Grand Slam match win and extending his all-time record for a Frenchman. Playing in his 18th and final US Open, the former world number six and 2016 semi-finalist said the atmosphere in New York always brings out his best. He also revealed his wife, Elina Svitolina, gave him a watch as a birthday present, and he will next face American 14th seed Learner Tien in the second round.