Gael Monfils: Last Man Standing in Tennis’ Golden Generation
Gael Monfils, the flamboyant Frenchman, has been a fan favorite for two decades on the ATP Tour. His unique playing style and infectious enthusiasm have made him a crowd-pleaser. This weekend, he graces the Ultimate Tennis Showdown (UTS) in Frankfurt, Germany, a revolutionary league featuring 40-minute matches, live coaching, and mid-match interviews.
Monfils relishes the UTS format, which aligns with his personality. “It’s a balance between show, competition, and experience,” he says. “I love the creativity and freedom it allows.”
UTS Frankfurt boasts a star-studded lineup, including Ben Shelton, Jan-Lennard Struff, Denis Shapovalov, and Dominic Thiem, who is making his final professional appearance in Germany before retiring. Monfils holds Thiem in high regard, praising his versatility and Grand Slam triumph at the 2020 US Open.
“We’re going to miss him,” Monfils says. “He brings a different energy.”
Monfils’ retirement is not on the horizon yet, but he acknowledges the recent departures of Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer, and Andy Murray. “I feel lucky to still be playing,” he says. “I’ve been blessed with fewer injuries.”
Off the court, Monfils is a devoted husband to Elina Svitolina and a doting father to their two-year-old daughter, Skai. Fatherhood has transformed his perspective. “She’s my priority number one,” he says. “It’s changed my view and made me less selfish.”
Monfils plans to play a few exhibitions after UTS before spending the off-season with his family. Next season will be pivotal for him, but he’s not thinking about retirement just yet. “I’m ready to play it and see what life gives me,” he says.