Monfils: "I'm starting to realize the influence I've had on many people"

Gael Monfils faces Roland Garros 2026 with an inevitable blend of nostalgia, gratitude, and emotion. The veteran Parisian player confirmed months ago that this would be his final season as a professional and arrives at the French Grand Slam aware that he is experiencing his last moments in the most special tournament of his entire career.

During the Media Day before the start of Roland Garros, Gael Monfils spoke with great sincerity about how he is experiencing this farewell tour, reminiscing about some of the best moments of his career in Paris and also sharing very personal reflections on his legacy in tennis, his influence on the new generations, and the emotional impact of the letter that Elina Svitolina recently wrote to his daughter.

The Emotion Over Elina Svitolina's Letter

"The truth is that evening she read me the letter when I returned from the event, and we both were very moved. It was one of the first times I felt that she truly opened up in that way, and for me, it was very profound. It moved me very much."

His Influence on the New Generations

"Now that I'm finishing my career, I think I'm starting to realize the influence I may have had. When you are fully immersed in the circuit, it's hard to look around and truly understand the impact you have on other people."

"Knowing that I could inspire young players and especially young Black players to show them that they could also reach this level means a lot to me. Many boys told me they liked my style, the way I move and play, and for the Black community, it was also important to see someone like that in the circuit."

His Final Roland Garros and the Pending Dream

"My list of dreams is practically complete. I think Roland Garros gave me everything I ever dreamed of or worked for. The only thing missing was lifting this trophy, that's probably the 0.1% that remains pending. Beyond that, I feel extremely grateful and blessed for everything I experienced here."

How He Is Experiencing His Farewell Tour

"Since I could publicly express my desire to retire, I feel much better about myself. It may sound strange to say, but whatever happens, I feel incredibly fortunate to be able to bid farewell this way, sharing the court with all these players and being able to compete one last season."

"I remain a competitor, so I try to push myself to the maximum in some matches, but honestly, I am enjoying this stage very much and I feel very fortunate to still be here."

The Years He Felt Closest to the Title

"I remember in 2008 I played the semifinal against Federer, but honestly, I felt even better in 2009. At that moment, I was playing incredible tennis, and physically I felt spectacular."

"Also in 2016, I arrived at the tournament in great shape, but unfortunately, I couldn't compete. During the COVID year, I also felt that I was in very good form. Ultimately, each edition has its own story."

His Friendship with Stan Wawrinka

"Stan is a true friend. For us, tennis comes second. He is someone with whom I share great moments off the court for many years, and at the same time, I greatly admire everything he achieved as a player. He is an absolute legend, a very generous person, very open, and someone who will always be there if you need help or support."

His Vision of French Tennis

"I sincerely believe that France has very good players and a high level of competitiveness. It all depends on how each interprets what it truly means to be in the elite, but for me, there is still a lot of talent and many players pushing hard."

With the logical emotion of someone preparing to close one of the most charismatic careers of the last two decades, Gael Monfils faces Roland Garros 2026 determined to enjoy every moment in Paris. The Frenchman made it clear that, beyond results, his greatest victory is being able to bid farewell to tennis feeling grateful for everything he experienced on and off the court.