A tennis prodigy has announced retirement next year, receiving heartfelt wishes from stars like Djokovic!

Monfils, the ultimate showman of the tennis world, has declared it’s time to say goodbye to the sport he loves. With dazzling moves and unforgettable flair, this Frenchman has ignited fans’ passion on court for two decades. Since his debut in 2004, he has been one of the most charismatic figures in men’s tennis. Monfils has won 13 singles titles in his career and reached a career-high ranking of world No. 6. But now, he has chosen to close this brilliant chapter, and his peers have expressed their heartfelt emotions and blessings.

In an Instagram post on Wednesday, Monfils shared sincere reflections, looking back on his journey. “I first held a racquet at two and a half years old, and started my professional career at 18,” he said. “Now, just a month after celebrating my 39th birthday, I want to share this news: the upcoming year will be my last as a professional tennis player.” He candidly explained his decision with gratitude: “Turning my passion into a profession has been a privilege I’ve cherished in every match and moment over 21 years. Although this sport means the world to me, I have calmly decided to retire at the end of the 2026 season.”

After the announcement, fellow players quickly sent their best wishes. Djokovic, who has faced Monfils 20 times and known him well, wrote a touching tribute: “LaMonf… watching you play has always been a joy. You are an amazing person who brings happiness both on and off the court. That means more than any achievement. In tennis, your athletic talent is simply unmatched, one of the finest I’ve seen across all sports. Thank you for all the great battles over the years. Enjoy your final dance, my friend ❤️.”

Praise came not only from Djokovic; rising star Menchik also commented: “❤️❤️ la monf.” Although they met only once last year at the Qatar Open, Menchik holds great respect for him. Fellow Frenchman Terence Atman wrote a brief but meaningful word: “Goat.” Even without direct matches, their shared nationality creates a strong bond between them.

If you didn’t know, “La Monf” is Gaël Monfils’ nickname, derived from French street slang where “La” is added before the name to sound cooler. Although “La” is grammatically feminine, the nickname flows naturally and caught on widely. Previously, he was also called the “Slider-Man” for his agile sliding movements on court. Whichever nickname, they perfectly reflect his unique style and charm.

Even his wife, fellow pro tennis player Svitolina, left a message: “Can’t wait to start a new chapter with you, we love you! ❤️❤️❤️” The couple has been together since 2018, married in 2021, and now have a daughter named Skai, born in 2022.

For tennis fans, saying goodbye to Monfils is not easy. He brought not only thrilling tennis but also warmth, humor, and kindness—both on and off the court. Though farewell is bittersweet, his sincere and calm attitude towards retirement brings a peaceful close to this journey.

The year 2025 has been challenging for Monfils. This “French showman” holds an 18-15 record this season, with moments of brilliance but also struggles with ups and downs and injuries. His highlight came at the Auckland Open in January, where he staged a fairy-tale victory to become the oldest ATP Tour champion since 1977. He even reached the fourth round of the Australian Open, upsetting top-five player Fritz. Experience, style, and charisma—at 39, Monfils still has it all.

However, the US Open dealt a blow; he battled Safrin in a five-set first-round match but ultimately lost. The defeat was painful, yet he did not stay silent, immediately posting on Instagram: “New York, you were amazing. The US season wasn’t what I hoped for, no wins, confidence shaken… but I gained many new experiences. The energy at the US Open was incredible. Your support in the stands, your messages and smiles—even in defeat, you kept me going.”

He did not stop there. Monfils admitted this period has been tough but promised not to give up easily. “I sincerely thank everyone. This time hasn’t been easy, results aren’t great, confidence is low. But I still believe in myself. I will keep working hard, step by step regaining rhythm and confidence. Next stop: the Asian season. Restarting with determination and motivation. Thanks for always being with me—it means the world.”

On September 18, at the Chengdu Open, Monfils won a tiebreak against Shevchenko but suffered an unexpected injury in the second set. He twisted his right ankle while jumping back, falling in pain. The umpire, doctor, and even Shevchenko quickly came over to check. Still showing his humor, Monfils joked to the umpire, “Give me 10 seconds,” then bravely tried to continue. But the pain was unbearable, and he eventually covered his head with a towel, sitting down sadly to retire.

Unfortunately, this was not the first time; it marked his fifth withdrawal or pre-match retirement this season. Earlier, he pulled out of the Australian Open due to back pain, retired mid-match in Madrid for physical issues, and withdrew before playing in Cincinnati.

At 39, his greatest opponent now is his own body. With the retirement decision confirmed, he finally has time to heal. Perhaps 2026 will still bring one last joyful chapter?(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Spark)