Monfils bids farewell to French Open with star-studded exhibition win

Gael Monfils turned Roland Garros into a celebration on Thursday, teaming with his wife Elina Svitolina to win a lively exhibition match as he prepares for his final appearance at his home Grand Slam.

The popular Frenchman took center stage on Court Philippe-Chatrier for “Gael & Friends,” an evening blending tennis, music and tributes to honor his two-decade professional career.

The former world number six was joined by leading players including Novak Djokovic, Jannik Sinner, Alexander Zverev and Stefanos Tsitsipas.

Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka also participated, alongside Maria Sakkari and rising American talent Iva Jovic, while his former Davis Cup teammates Jo-Wilfried Tsonga and Richard Gasquet added a nostalgic touch.

Monfils and Svitolina capped the night by winning the exhibition, delighting the Paris crowd with laughter, trick shots and playful exchanges replacing typical competitive tension.

Monfils won 13 ATP titles and enjoyed memorable runs in Paris, including a semifinal appearance in 2008. He helped France reach Davis Cup finals in 2010 and 2014.

While a Grand Slam title eluded him, his impact extended beyond results, and his on-court charisma made him a major draw wherever he played.

“Thanks to you all for everything you’ve given me over the years,” the 39-year-old showman said after the exhibition. “It’s been a dream of my life. I’ve always given my absolute most. I was never quite good enough to win a Grand Slam. But maybe I won something more important than that — a tennis career I’m proud of.”

Svitolina, who had earlier called her husband “a magician” in a note written to their daughter, was reduced to tears as Monfils lingered on court, soaking up one final ovation.

Monfils will play 25-year-old compatriot Hugo Gaston in the first round at Roland Garros next week, his 19th appearance in the main draw at the French Open.

The exhibition served as a warm-up for what is expected to be his final French Open campaign, ending a storied career at the tournament where he first captured fans’ hearts.