Gael Monfils Announces Retirement from Professional Tennis After 2026 Season

Gael Monfils announces retirement

Gael Monfils, the charismatic French tennis player, has announced his retirement from professional tennis at the end of the 2026 season, marking the end of a 21-year career.

“Now, after celebrating my 39th birthday just a month ago, I'd like to share that the year ahead will be my last as a professional tennis player...”

Gael Monfils, the charismatic French tennis player, has announced that he'll be hanging up his racket at the end of the 2026 season. The 39-year-old former world No. 6 shared the bittersweet news on social media, expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to turn his passion into a profession.

With a career spanning over two decades, Monfils has racked up 13 ATP Tour titles, including a notable win at the Auckland Classic in January. This victory not only showcased his enduring talent but also cemented his record as the oldest player to win an ATP Tour title at 38 years and four months. His impressive athleticism and flair on the court have made him a fan favorite.

I’ve got something to share with you. pic.twitter.com/pBGh58O6pg

— Gael Monfils (@Gael_Monfils) October 1, 2025

Monfils reflected on his career, stating that he has no regrets despite not winning a Grand Slam title. He feels incredibly fortunate to have played alongside tennis legends like Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray. As the last member of the French “Musketeers” group, which includes Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, Gilles Simon, and Richard Gasquet, Monfils is set to conclude an era in French tennis.

“Now, after celebrating my 39th birthday just a month ago, I'd like to share that the year ahead will be my last as a professional tennis player,” Monfils wrote on social media.

“The opportunity to turn my passion into a profession is a privilege I have cherished during every match and moment of my 21-year career.

“Though this game means the world to me, I am tremendously at peace with my decision to retire at the end of the 2026 tennis season.”

Gael Monfils, the charismatic French tennis star, is set to retire at the end of the 2026 season, marking the end of an illustrious 22-year career. Despite reaching two Grand Slam semi-finals, including the 2008 French Open and the 2016 US Open, Monfils expressed no regrets about his decision to hang up his racket. “Life is too short,”  he said. “Believe me when I say that I have no regrets. What I do have is the feeling that I have been lucky: insanely, stupidly lucky.” Monfils plans to compete through the full 2026 season, with his final tournament likely to be the Paris Masters, a fitting end to his career.

Monfils' career highlights include

Achievements:

   13 ATP Tour Titles: Won 13 titles, including his latest in Auckland in January, which made him the oldest player to win an ATP Tour title at 38 years and four months.

    

Grand Slam Semi-finals: Reached semi-finals at the French Open (2008) and US Open (2016).

 

Career-high Ranking: Reached a career-high ranking of world No. 6 in November 2016.

Legacy: Known for his athleticism, flair, and entertaining playing style, Monfils has left an indelible mark on the tennis world. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to turn his passion into a profession and thanked his family, loved ones, and fans for their support. Monfils is excited about the new generation of players, particularly stars like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, who are poised to take tennis to new heights.

“Life is too short,” he added. “Believe me when I say that I have no regrets. What I do have is the feeling that I have been lucky: insanely, stupidly lucky.”

What's Next?

As Monfils enters the final year of his career, he'll aim to make the most of his time on the court. With his sights set on enjoying every moment, he might still target one more title before bidding farewell to professional tennis. Fans can look forward to seeing him in action, particularly at Roland Garros and the Paris Masters, which are expected to be emotional highlights of his farewell tour.