Gael Monfils survives Andrey Kuznetsov scare to reach second round in Monte Carlo

Gael Monfils has progressed into the second round of the Monte Carlo Masters after beating Andrey Kuznetsov in three sets.

The Frenchman had to come from behind on his way to beating his Russian opponent 4-6 6-3 6-4 after two hours of play.

Monfils looked to be in a strong position in the first set after moving 4-2 ahead but Kuznetsov fought back, with the world number 101 winning four games in a row to take it 6-4.

Monfils responded well in the second, breaking Kuznetsov three times on his way to establishing a 5-2 advantage. The 14th seed did not relinquish his lead this time around as he served out the set 6-3.

Kuznetsov put up more of a fight in the deciding set, as both players traded breaks to leave the score at 4-4. Monfils broke again to go 5-4 up and, after saving two break points in the final game, he wrapped up the match on his own serve.

He will now face Alexandr Dolgopolov in the second round.