Gael Monfils Drinks Coke In The Middle Of Federer Match

Gael Monfils, the 28-year-old French tennis pro whom ESPN calls "one of the most spectacular athletes in professional sports," is known for his decidedly approachable and un-precious attitude.

He doesn't have a coach, did backwards somersaults during a Kids Day dance-off even though he had a sprained ankle, and his style is described as "reckless."

This week, during Monfils' match against Roger Federer, "while most players drink "highly calibrated energy concoctions on the sideline," he poured himself a Coke.

"Sometimes I just want a Coke," he reportedly explained in his post-match press conference.

On Twitter, New York Times contributor and NCR Tennis podcast host Ben Rothenberg tweeted his appreciation for the candid moment.

Share a Coke with: Gaël. Monfils enjoyed some cola on the last changeover. Always the real thing, that guy. #USOpen

— Ben Rothenberg (@BenRothenberg) September 5, 2014

Monfils went on to lose the game to Federer.

"Gael put up such a great fight, played such incredible tennis," said Federer. "I knew I could play better. I served well and stayed in the match and somehow turned it around."

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Karen Lo is an associate editor at The Daily Meal. Follow her on Twitter @appleplexy.