At the French Open today, Andy Murray will renew a rivalry with Gael Monfils that began 16 years ago in Rouen.

Murray was 10 and Monfils 11 when they met in the semi-finals of a junior tournament, the Frenchman winning before losing to Murray’s brother Jamie in the final.

“He used to play with glasses,” said the Wimbledon champion. “He had shaved hair, but quite a high cut. He was the same as he is now. He was just a great athlete, moved unbelievably well, smiling on the court.

“He enjoyed playing in front of a crowd, even though it was a small crowd. When you’re 10, 11 years old, playing in front of 40, 50 people feels like it’s loads.

“He’s just always been a great entertainer, and he’s great for the sport.”

The pair have been friends ever since those early days and if Murray had to pick one player to watch, it would probably be Monfils.

The Frenchman, who is eight months older, also has fond memories of matches against Murray.

He said: “We grew up pretty much together. It’s always fun to play against him. He’s the same, he didn’t change at all.”