ATP ATP Rolex Paris Masters 2026 Gael Monfils

This has been the touching tribute to Monfils in Paris

Pedro de Pablos - 3 Nov 2026
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Here is the translated headline: "This has been the emotional tribute to Monfils in Paris. Source: ATP"

A few weeks ago, Gael Monfils decided to retire early due to his unexpected separation from Elina Svitolina. In theory, the French tennis player was going to end his career at the ATP Paris to say goodbye in front of his fans, but he lost his passion for tennis after suffering a hard blow that caught him by surprise and forced him to rush through stages when least expected. Still, the tournament paid him an emotional tribute before the match between Rafa Jódar and Casper Ruud, with the French legend taking a victory lap around the court.

The ATP Paris had already announced that Monfils would receive the tribute he deserves despite not competing in the tournament. Although Gael is not in a position to compete at the highest level due to his difficult personal situation, he did receive the outpouring of love that a player with his career deserves. One of the most beloved players to have passed through the circuit, with an overwhelming charisma and highlights that rival only a few chosen ones.

Monfils bids farewell among legends and with a message to his daughter

As if that weren't enough, beyond the victory lap Gael was also joined by some of his best friends on the court. Legends of French tennis such as Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, Benoit Paire, Gilles Simon, and Richard Gasquet did not want to miss this moment, showing their affection at an important time for him. 

 

 

In fact, Monfils also had some heartfelt words for his daughter Skai, stating that "my daughter Skai, who is 4 years old, told me she wants to be a tennis champion… Skai, I dedicate this farewell to you —on November 3, 2026 in Paris, just eight years after starting my relationship with your mother [Elina Svitolina]— and I hope that one day you will also be a tennis champion".

This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Así ha sido el emotivo homenaje a Monfils en París