French star Gaël Monfils stunned the tennis world with a heartfelt message announcing that the upcoming season would be his final one on tour. His announcement triggered a wave of emotion across the fraternity, drawing tributes from Novak Djokovic, Sloane Stephens, Naomi Osaka, and others.
How Did the Tennis World, Including Novak Djokovic, Share Their Wishes With Gaël Monfils?
Monfils is one of the few remaining veterans on tour who have left an indelible mark on the sport. The Frenchman has claimed 13 career titles and reached a career-high ATP ranking of No. 6 in 2016. Recently, he took a heartfelt message to Instagram, sharing that his love for tennis began at just two and a half years old.
“Now, after celebrating my 39th birthday just a month ago, I’d like to share that the year ahead will be my last as a professional tennis player,” Monfils added in his lengthy emotional post.
The Frenchman added that turning his passion into a profession has been a privilege and that he feels at peace with his decision to retire at the end of 2026. The 39-year-old also spoke warmly of his wife, Elina Svitolina, describing her as his “inspiration” and an “exceptional” player.
Monfils’ heartfelt message sparked an outpouring of tributes from fellow players, including 24-time Grand Slam champion Djokovic. The Serb lauded the Frenchman’s remarkable athleticism and expressed gratitude for their memorable battles on court.
“LaMonf… What a treat was to watch you every match. You are an amazing human being that brings joy to people on and off the court. That counts more then anything else. Tennis wise, your athleticism is off the charts. One of the best I have ever seen in all sports. Thank you 🙏 for all the great battles over the years we had and enjoy your last dance, my friend 🙌🎾❤️,” he wrote.
Moreover, Monfils’ wife and world No. 13 Svitolina also shared a heart-touching message in the comments.
“Can’t wait to begin this new chapter with you 🥹🥹🥹 we love you !” It read.
Four-time Major champion Osaka also shared a heartfelt message in the comments.
“🥹❤️ congratulations on everything and thank you for inspiring all of us!” It read.
In addition, 2017 US Open champion Sloane Stephens congratulated Monfils and expressed her excitement for his “last dance” on tour.
“LaMonf! Congratulations, Excited for one last dance, 40 will be epic!”
In addition, several top players and tennis figures, including women’s tennis legend Billie Jean King, Jakub Menšík, Argentina’s Francisco Cerúndolo, Jiri Lehecka, Zizou Bergs, Spanish star Alejandro Davidovich Fokina and three-time Grand Slam finalist Ons Jabeur shared their best wishes following Monfils’ announcement. The official accounts of the ATP, Davis Cup and Australian Open also joined in.
Monfils’ poignant message also included gratitude for his family, brother Daryl and sisters Roddie and Maélie, as well as for his agent Nicolas, coaches, teammates and the French Tennis Federation for their constant support.
MORE: Elina Svitolina Confesses Watching Husband Gaël Monfils Retire Is ‘Not Easy’ for Her as She Fights Back Tears
One of the standout moments in Monfils’ career came early this year when he claimed his 13th ATP Tour title at the ASB Classic in January. The win set a new record, making him the oldest ATP Tour singles champion at 38 years and four months.