'The artist' of the tennis world sets retirement date

02/10/2025 08:07:00 pandatv

One of the most artistic and dedicated players in the tennis world will hang up his racket after 21 years of professional play.

The veteran French player, who once ranked world No. 6 and is among the most beloved figures in modern tennis - Gael Monfils - has announced he will retire after the 2026 season concludes.

At 39 years old, Monfils - known for his emotionally charged playing style, spectacular defensive shots, and remarkable physical fitness - shared on social media that he feels completely at peace with his decision to end over two decades of competing during tennis's golden era.

"I first held a racket when I was just two and a half years old and began playing professionally at 18. Turning my passion into a career has been a privilege I have cherished every moment of throughout my 21 years on tour.", Monfils wrote.

During his career, Monfils won 13 ATP titles and reached two Grand Slam semifinals - at Roland Garros in 2008 and the US Open in 2016. Although he never captured a Grand Slam trophy, he insists he has no regrets.

"I feel incredibly fortunate to have competed alongside legends like Federer, Nadal, Djokovic, and Murray.", Monfils expressed.

'Nghệ sĩ' làng banh nỉ thế giới ấn định thời điểm giải nghệ 714732 — The title he won in Auckland earlier this year is likely to be Gael Monfils' final career trophy.

In January this year, Monfils set a record as the oldest player to win an ATP Tour title by triumphing in Auckland, New Zealand - 20 years after his first trophy. This achievement surpassed Roger Federer's record, who won in Basel in 2019 at age 38.

Monfils is also the last member of the French tennis group known as "The Musketeers" - including Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, Gilles Simon, and Richard Gasquet - to retire.

Currently ranked 55th in the world, Monfils married Ukrainian player Elina Svitolina in 2021 and they have a daughter. In a heartfelt message to fans, the veteran player said: "To everyone who has ever shouted 'Allez, Gael!' – your love and energy mean everything to me."

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