Ben Shelton advanced to the quarterfinals of the Australian Open 2025 after Gaël Monfils was forced to retire during their intense fourth-round match due to injury. The match, which showcased both players' exceptional skills, concluded with the scores at 7-6, 6-7, 7-6, 1-0, after nearly three hours of play.
The French veteran, who at 38 years old captivated audiences with his athleticism and flair, had been facing mounting pressure as the match wore on. Each of the first three sets featured nail-biting tiebreaks, with neither player managing to assert full control. After Shelton took the first set, Monfils answered back by claiming the second, but the American managed to edge the third before the unfortunate retirement followed.
After losing serve to Shelton at the beginning of the fourth set, Monfils cited discomfort from what appeared to be previously sustained injuries, including ankle and back issues, prompting him to retire. His emotional departure marked the end of what had been both thrilling and commendable run for the veteran, who had impressed fans by defying age with his performance throughout the tournament.
"Gaël is one of the reasons I fell in love with the sport. For me, Gaël has the greatest highlight tape of all time. Sharing the court with him was an honor," Shelton reflected post-match, lauding Monfils for his impact on the sport. This heartfelt tribute encapsulated the respect shared between the younger generation of players and the legends of the game.
Monfils, who was enjoying his best showing at the Australian Open since 2021, came off his prior success, including winning the Auckland Open earlier this month. Although he was riding on momentum after defeating the fourth-seeded Taylor Fritz, the physical demands of his matches appeared to have worn down his body. The crowd celebrated Monfils' remarkable achievements with cheers, recognizing the enduring appeal he has had throughout his career.
Following the match, Shelton expressed hope for Monfils’ recovery and acknowledged the challenging nature of their battle: "Obviously he’s played a lot of long matches, so I wanted to make it as physical as possible. There’s a lot of things he does unbelievably well. To push me the way he did today and entertain everyone is so impressive."
Looking forward, Shelton's advancement to the quarterfinals marks another significant achievement for the rising star, matching his performance from 2023. His next test will be against Italy’s Lorenzo Sonego, who has also performed well throughout the tournament. Shelton's chance to reclaim his place among the top players looms large, particularly after overcoming Monfils' exertions.
The stage is set for Shelton versus Sonego, with tennis fans eager to see if Shelton can carry his current form forward. The energy he displayed against Monfils, combined with his aggressive style, will be pivotal as he aims not just for victory, but to solidify his place among the tennis elite.
Though Monfils exited with disappointment, his legacy as one of tennis' living legends remains intact. His unique blend of athleticism and artistry has delighted fans for years, capturing the essence of the game's spirit.
The outcomes of this match and the tournament's direction portray the dynamic shift within men's tennis—where established stars continue to shine even as new talents vie for their position. The duel between experience and youthful vigor remains at the forefront of the narrative at this year's Australian Open.
With Shelton's rising profile and Monfils' commendable send-off from the competition, the Australian Open continues to deliver thrilling matches delivering both nostalgia and promising futures for players striving to make their mark.