Gaël Monfils credits crowds, Svitolina for resurgence

WATCH: Monfils hadn't won an ATP title since just before the start of the global pandemic in 2020.

France's Gaël Monfils is back in the winner's circle, lifting the trophy at the ATP Adelaide International, and perhaps more importantly, also lifting his confidence and desire to play the game.

The 35-year-old hadn't won a title since 2020, when he secured victories in Rotterdam and Montpellier just prior to the start of widespread pandemic restrictions.

And the crowd-pleasing Monfils says that isn't a coincidence.

"It’s amazing to play in front of you guys. That’s why I’m waking up every morning…to play in front of a full crowd, good spirit, good atmosphere, this is amazing, this is great memories, thank you so much,'' Monfils told spectators at Adelaide, having beaten Karen Khachanov in the final.

The two-time Grand Slam semifinalist had previously won 10 career titles and reached a high of No. 6 five years ago, but fell below the Top 20 during 2021.

He also credits his fellow player and wife, Elina Svitolina, with helping him stay motivated during a difficult stretch with few wins and often no fans in the stands. The two married in 2021.

"I want to thank my wife, Elina. She has been there always," he said. "It was a really, really tough last year for me, almost—not wanting to quit—but lost the faith a little bit about tennis and she was there and always caring."

Monfils is No.19 in the rankings.