Gael Monfils Bids Emotional Farewell At Australian Open

For nearly two decades, Gael Monfils dazzled tennis fans with his acrobatic shot-making, infectious charisma, and a flair for the dramatic. On January 20, 2026, at Melbourne Park’s Kia Arena, the 39-year-old Frenchman bid an emotional farewell to the Australian Open, capping off a remarkable run that began in 2003. Facing Australia’s Dane Sweeny in the first round, Monfils left everything on the court in an epic four-hour battle, but ultimately fell 6-7(3), 7-5, 6-4, 7-5.

The atmosphere was electric from the first serve, with fans from both camps—Aussies in yellow and green, French supporters waving tricolors—chanting and singing Monfils’ name. The Parisian, renowned for his gravity-defying leaps and relentless defense, seemed poised for another signature comeback after taking the first set in a tiebreak and grabbing a break in the fourth. But Sweeny, a 24-year-old qualifier ranked No. 182 in the world and seeking his first Grand Slam main draw win, refused to yield, matching Monfils’ athleticism with gritty determination and a few spectacular winners of his own.

“Disbelief. Euphoria,” Sweeny admitted after the match, still processing the enormity of his achievement. “A lot of just I don't know what's going on. Almost felt like I was watching a show because it was pretty incredible moment. Still sinking in. To not only win the first round of a grand slam, but to do it at the Australian Open, to do it in front of such an amazing atmosphere, to beat a legend of the game, Gael Monfils, it was a bit of a pinch-myself moment. Quite an overwhelming feeling. I think that was pretty evident, I dropped to the floor.”

For Monfils, the defeat signaled the close of a chapter, but not before one more display of the heart and showmanship that made him a fan favorite worldwide. In a break from tennis tradition, he remained on court after the winner’s interview to address the crowd directly. Fighting back tears, he reflected on his journey: “Thank you very much first of all. My journey began in 2003 with you guys, and here I am at the finish line. I have so many great memories here, big battles. Even today. Nearly four hours of tennis. I told Sweeny at the net: 'You're doing great work and good luck for the next round.' So I feel very grateful and lucky to have played here all these years.”

Monfils’ career at the Australian Open has been nothing short of storied. Making his junior debut in 2003 and main draw debut in 2005—where as an 18-year-old wildcard he notched his first win against Robert Ginepri—the Frenchman quickly established himself as one of the sport’s most exciting players. He reached the quarterfinals in 2016 and again in 2022, the latter after a dramatic five-setter against Matteo Berrettini. Just last year, Monfils became the oldest man to reach the fourth round at Melbourne Park since Roger Federer, toppling fourth seed Taylor Fritz along the way.

Throughout his 20 Australian Open appearances and 69 Grand Slam main draws, Monfils became synonymous with resilience and entertainment. His career Grand Slam five-set record stands at a remarkable 22-21, a testament to his ability to claw back from the brink and thrill crowds with improbable comebacks. Even in his final match, the spirit was undiminished—late in the first set, he uncorked one of his trademark leaping forehands, drawing roars from the packed stands. But it was clear the years, and the physical toll of a lifetime on tour, were catching up. Between points, Monfils often leaned heavily on his racket, seeking respite from the grueling exchanges that defined his game.

Monfils’ farewell was made all the more poignant by the presence of his wife, Elina Svitolina, the No. 12 seed in the women’s draw, who watched from the stands and offered encouragement throughout. The couple, both celebrated athletes in their own right, have become one of tennis’s most beloved power duos. Their shared journey through the highs and lows of professional tennis has been a source of inspiration for fans and fellow players alike.

After the match, Monfils took a moment to acknowledge the support he’d received, not just from the crowd on this particular day, but throughout his long career in Australia. “Thank-you so much for this amazing ride. I’ve got a lot of great memories here. Big battles, quarterfinals,” he said, his voice wavering. “Very lucky to play here for many years. Merci beaucoup.”

He also offered heartfelt praise to his opponent, recognizing Sweeny’s perseverance and the adversity he’d overcome. “I told him at the net, I read his story. This kid got hurt so I really wish you good luck for the next one because wow, he is playing very good, so good luck,” Monfils said. Such sportsmanship has long been a hallmark of the Frenchman’s approach, earning him respect across the tennis world.

For Sweeny, the victory represents a watershed moment in his young career. To defeat a legend like Monfils, especially in front of a raucous home crowd, is the kind of breakthrough that can launch a player to new heights. “To beat a legend of the game, Gael Monfils, it was a bit of a pinch-myself moment,” he repeated, still in awe of the occasion.

Monfils’ retirement marks the end of an era, not just for French tennis but for the sport as a whole. His unique blend of athleticism, showmanship, and humility endeared him to generations of fans. Few players have managed to combine such high-wire theatrics with genuine warmth and generosity, both on and off the court. From his first steps as a teenager in Melbourne to his final bow, Monfils has embodied the spirit of the sport—never afraid to risk, always ready to entertain, and forever grateful for the opportunity.

As the lights dimmed on Kia Arena and the crowd gave one last ovation, Monfils waved to the stands, soaking in the love and appreciation of those who had cheered him for so many years. While his days of leaping forehands and five-set marathons at the Australian Open have come to an end, the memories he created will linger long after the final point. For tennis fans everywhere, Gael Monfils’ legacy is secure—a true entertainer, a relentless competitor, and above all, an ambassador for the joyful side of the game.