Gael Monfils has crashed out of the French Open in his final appearance at Roland Garros – with Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic among those to pay tribute in video messages post-match. The Frenchman, who will retire at the end of the year, lost to his compatriot Hugo Gaston in five sets, 2-6 3-6 6-3 6-2 0-6 and was given a plaque with the clay and undersoil post-match.
The 39-year-old has won 13 titles in his career and became the oldest ATP Tour champion at the age of 38 and four months when he won the Auckland Open in January last year. Monfils’ athleticism and all-action displays made him one of the most popular players on tour.
However, he has struggled with injuries in recent years and was physically impeded in the final set of Monday night’s defeat to Gaston. His wife, women’s tennis star Elina Svitolina, was seen in tears while watching his post-match ceremony in the stands.
An emotional Monfils said: “Every year I come here to Roland Garros, I shiver. It’s magic, incredible, amazing that we create something unique.
“It’s exceptional. It’s amazing. I love you. And I give you the biggest thank you from the bottom of my heart, you have been with me throughout my career.
“And again, just that one more time before I finish to all the people in the background who have made this tournament extraordinary.
“Each year all the, all the ball kids, the transport people, all of the great staff who do such a, a brilliant job. This Tournament is magical, it’s amazing. Honestly, Roland Garros, I love you.”
Djokovic, Nadal and Yannick Noah were then seen in video messages – paying tribute to the Frenchman.
The former world No.6 has been a hugely entertaining and popular character with both fans and his fellow pros alike for the last two decades.
His conquerer, Gaston, has booked a round-of-64 meeting with Argentinian 25th seed Francisco Cerundolo. Paying tribute post-match, he said: “It was very hard.
“It’s very weird the feeling, there’s joy obviously but sadness for Gael. I’m very sorry. I want to thank you for everything you’ve done for young players.”