Novak Djokovic, Sloane Stephens and A number of Different Gamers Ship Messages to Gaël Monfils As He Prepares To Retire

French star Gaël Monfils surprised the tennis world with a heartfelt message saying that the upcoming season could be his last one on tour. His announcement triggered a wave of emotion throughout the fraternity, drawing tributes from Novak Djokovic, Sloane Stephens, Naomi Osaka, and others.
How Did the Tennis World, Together with Novak Djokovic, Share Their Needs With Gaël Monfils?
Monfils is likely one of the few remaining veterans on tour who’ve left an indelible mark on the game. The Frenchman has claimed 13 profession titles and reached a career-high ATP rating of No. 6 in 2016. Not too long ago, he took a heartfelt message to Instagram, sharing that his love for tennis started at simply two and a half years outdated.
“Now, after celebrating my thirty ninth birthday only a month in the past, I’d wish to share that the 12 months forward will likely be my final as knowledgeable tennis participant,” Monfils added in his prolonged emotional put up.
The Frenchman added that turning his ardour right into a career has been a privilege and that he feels at peace together with his resolution to retire on the finish of 2026. The 39-year-old additionally spoke warmly of his spouse, Elina Svitolina, describing her as his “inspiration” and an “distinctive” participant.
Monfils’ heartfelt message sparked an outpouring of tributes from fellow gamers, together with 24-time Grand Slam champion Djokovic. The Serb lauded the Frenchman’s outstanding athleticism and expressed gratitude for his or her memorable battles on courtroom.
“LaMonf… What a deal with was to look at you each match. You’re an incredible human being that brings pleasure to individuals on and off the courtroom. That counts extra then anything. Tennis clever, your athleticism is off the charts. Among the best I’ve ever seen in all sports activities. Thanks 🙏 for all the nice battles over time we had and revel in your final dance, my buddy 🙌🎾❤️,” he wrote.
Furthermore, Monfils’ spouse and world No. 13 Svitolina additionally shared a heart-touching message within the feedback.
“Can’t wait to start this new chapter with you 🥹🥹🥹 we love you !” It learn.
4-time Main champion Osaka additionally shared a heartfelt message within the feedback.
“🥹❤️ congratulations on every little thing and thanks for uplifting all of us!” It learn.
As well as, 2017 US Open champion Sloane Stephens congratulated Monfils and expressed her pleasure for his “final dance” on tour.
“LaMonf! Congratulations, Excited for one final dance, 40 will likely be epic!”
As well as, a number of prime gamers and tennis figures, together with girls’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 finest needs following Monfils’ announcement. The official accounts of the ATP, Davis Cup and Australian Open additionally joined in.
Monfils’ poignant message additionally included gratitude for his household, brother Daryl and sisters Roddie and Maélie, in addition to for his agent Nicolas, coaches, teammates and the French Tennis Federation for his or her fixed assist.
One of many standout moments in Monfils’ profession got here early this 12 months when he claimed his thirteenth ATP Tour title on the ASB Traditional in January. The win set a brand new document, making him the oldest ATP Tour singles champion at 38 years and 4 months.