Gael Monfils played his final Australian Open match on Tuesday, bringing the curtain down on an incredible chapter in tennis.
The 13-time ATP Tour titleholder fell in the opening round to local favourite Dane Sweeny, losing 6-7, 7-5, 6-4, 7-5.
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Back in October of last year, he revealed that the 2026 season would be his last – news that left fans everywhere feeling a bit empty.
After starting his farewell tour in Auckland, Monfils looked back on his time in Melbourne during a conversation with tournament director Craig Tiley following the loss.
Monfils leaves Final Australian Open crowd with a gracious message
Photo by Fiona Goodall/Getty Images
Speaking to the crowd inside Show Court Arena, Monfils said: “Thank you so much. For me, my journey started in 2005 with you guys. Came here first time, now we are 2026 and somehow is the finish line, but thank you so much for this amazing ride. You guys have been unbelievable, so thank you very much.
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“I’ve got a lot of great memories here, a couple of big battles, quarters, fourth round even today was almost four hours.
“Even then you guys did an amazing job. 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.
“And again a big thanks. I’ve been really grateful and very lucky to play here for many years. So lastly thank you very much merci beaucoup.”
This was Monfils’ 20th appearance at the Australian Open with his first appearance coming all the way back in 2003.
The furthest he ever went in the tournament came in both 2016 and 2022 when he reached the quarter-finals.
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In 2016 he lost to Milos Raonic and then six years later it was Matteo Berrettini who ended his campaign despite taking it all five sets (6-4, 6-4, 3-6, 3-6, 6-2).
Looking back at Gael Monfils’ debut at the Australian Open
Gael Monfils first appeared in the main draw of the Australian Open in 2005, entering the tournament as an 18-year-old wildcard.
The Frenchman made an immediate impact, picking up his first win by defeating American Robert Ginepri in the opening round.
His run came to an end in the second round, where he was beaten by Belgium’s Oliver Rochus, 6-1, 6-3, 6-3.
Rochus went on to reach the fourth round before losing to Marat Safin, who went on to win the title that year.