For the first time in 22 years, Gael Monfils will not participate in a Grand Slam final, and he has yet to secure a victory against any member of tennis’s Big Three—Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic—during a major tournament. Despite these statistics, Monfils has won the hearts of fans worldwide with his flair, enthusiasm, and athleticism.
Recently, World No. 14 Learner Tien faced Monfils in Montreal and eagerly awaited the chance to compete against the “Flying Frenchman” once more. His wish was granted in New York on Friday, where he triumphed over Monfils with a score of 6-3, 6-4, 6-3 in a match lasting 2 hours and 17 minutes. After the match, Tien expressed regret for using too many dropshots during what would be Monfils’ final appearance at the US Open and in Grand Slam events.
The sentiment may have been directed more towards the audience, who came to witness Monfils’ extraordinary shot-making abilities. Even at the twilight of his career, Monfils retains the agility and skill to amaze both spectators and opponents alike. An example of his brilliance occurred during a first-round match against Paraguay’s Dani Vallejo. Monfils was down two sets to one when he executed an incredible shot that left the crowd in awe, culminating in a victory on his 40th birthday, celebrated with fans singing ‘Happy Birthday’ during his on-court interview.
However, in the second round, Tien did not provide Monfils with the opportunity to showcase his acrobatics. Although Monfils continued to entertain, he was unable to replicate the dazzling moments of his past. “You always want to give a little bit more, you want to stay a little bit more,” he remarked to reporters. “I gave my absolute all, but Learner was a really tough one tonight.”
Similar to Stan Wawrinka, who concluded his Grand Slam journey just days prior, Monfils faced the misfortune of competing during the peak years of Federer, Nadal, Djokovic, and Andy Murray. Unlike Wawrinka, however, Monfils struggled to challenge these top players in major tournaments. Nevertheless, he carved out a unique niche for himself in tennis, capturing 13 ATP titles, the latest of which came when he was 38 years old.
Monfils first arrived at Flushing Meadows as a 17-year-old competing in the boys’ singles event. Over the years, he has developed a profound connection with the New York audience, whom he regards as his second favorite after Paris. “I want to thank you all,” he expressed to the crowd on Friday. “It has been a helluva long ride. I felt all the love, and I can tell you that you guys are up there, so thank you so much.”
His peers acknowledge the lasting impression Monfils will leave on the sport. As tennis has become more physically demanding and players have leaned towards mechanical precision, the former world No. 6 has maintained his commitment to providing entertainment for fans. He has consistently opted for the spectacular over the safe, even if it risks losing the point, showcasing tweeners, no-look drop shots, and leaping overheads that have brought joy to spectators amid the intense competition of elite tennis.
Novak Djokovic has described him as “one of the best athletes” he has ever seen, while Naomi Osaka draws inspiration from Monfils’ groundbreaking contributions, placing him alongside the Williams sisters in significance.
However, not everyone is enamored with Monfils; some critics contend he did not fulfill his potential, particularly in comparison to his wife, Elina Svitolina. Monfils has learned to disregard such opinions. “My wife looks super professional in a way, and me, I don’t look professional in a way. But that’s not really the case because I have my work ethic. The only thing I want is for people to never forget that to succeed or whatever, you don’t have to listen to other people,” he stated in a 2024 interview with The Guardian.
After taking an unconventional approach to his tennis career, Monfils has surprised many with his post-retirement plans as well. He intends to embark on a career in finance, having signed on for a position in wealth management with a Swiss firm following his retirement at the end of the year. “I will work in finance. I already signed to work in wealth management in a Swiss company,” he announced after his farewell match.
Throughout his playing career, Monfils has remained true to himself, refusing to allow others to dictate his aspirations. As he approaches the next chapter of his life, it is evident that he will continue to follow his own path.
