ICYMI: Questionable tactics, a ripped shirt and a stellar Swiss

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ESPN.COM via <a href="http://espn.go.com/" title="ESPN" class="espn_sc_byline">ESPN </a>
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September 9, 2016, 10:52 PM ET
3 min read

— -- NEW YORK -- It was anything but conventional. Bizarre, in fact.?

Getting waxed by Novak Djokovic late in the first set of his semifinal match, Gael Monfils employed a defensive-minded tactic that, to many, looked like a case of sandbagging.

The Frenchman's strategy worked for a while. So much so, that Djokovic went all Hulk Hogan and tore his shirt off.

Ultimately, Djokovic prevailed in four sets. Afterward, the criticism of Monfils was harsh. ESPN tennis analyst John McEnroe went as far as calling his play "unprofessional." But was it?

US Open - What to make of Gael Monfils' borderline outrageous tactics? https://t.co/fuBn7TDuDu

- ESPNTennis (@ESPNTennis) September 10, 2016

Bottom line, though, was Djokovic got the win.

Djokovic Drops Monfils

World No.1 advances to 21st Major final, 7th at the #USOpen, with 6-3 6-2 3-6 6-2 win. pic.twitter.com/7pqgo5XtkM

Now, the world No. 1 just needed an opponent. Swiss sensation Stan Wawrinka was happy to oblige.

Satisfied Stan

World No.3 @stanwawrinka battles his way into his 3rd Major final, d. Nishikori 4-6 7-5 6-4 6-2. pic.twitter.com/3uOc3QSyn5

The shock waves from Serena Williams' semifinal loss Thursday still resonate. She came oh-so-close again, but for the fourth time in her past five Grand Slam events, fell deep in the tournament. Although she must be feeling disappointment, her journey remains memorable.

Serena Williams' hardscrabble road to glory is cut short in the semifinals https://t.co/9SM0qDoeSA

Satisfied Stan

World No.3 @stanwawrinka battles his way into his 3rd Major final, d. Nishikori 4-6 7-5 6-4 6-2. pic.twitter.com/3uOc3QSyn5

The shock waves from Serena Williams' semifinal loss Thursday still resonate. She came oh-so-close again, but for the fourth time in her past five Grand Slam events, fell deep in the tournament. Although she must be feeling disappointment, her journey remains memorable.

Serena Williams' hardscrabble road to glory is cut short in the semifinals https://t.co/9SM0qDoeSA