Gael Monfils fails to mention Elina Svitolina in heartbreaking retirement speech
Gael Monfils officially said farewell during an emotional ceremony at the Paris Masters on Tuesday evening. The former world No. 6 was expected to end his tennis career here, but he suddenly informed the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) of his retirement on October 5. Monfils and his wife of five years, Elina Svitolina, then released a joint statement on social media, announcing their split. Both Monfils and Svitolina have since confirmed that their personal situation was the reason the Frenchman ended his career abruptly, with Monfils explaining that he struggled to train or even pick up a racket.
TL;DR
- Gael Monfils officially retired at the Paris Masters with an emotional farewell ceremony.
- His retirement was announced on October 5, attributed to personal reasons and struggles with training.
- Monfils delivered a speech in French, translated for a global audience, thanking his supporters and family.
- He dedicated his final tennis presence to his four-year-old daughter, Skai, wishing her success.
- Numerous tennis stars, including Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Roger Federer, sent tribute messages.
- Victoria Azarenka shared a story highlighting Monfils' kindness and ability to change atmospheres through compassion.