Novak Djokovic reacts as Gael Monfils announces his impending retirement from tennis 

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Gael Monfils is a player who, at his peak, reached number six in the world rankings, but now the end of his career is close.

Monfils has announced that 2026 will be his final year on the ATP Tour, with the Frenchman calling it quits.

His wife, Elina Svitolina, announced recently that she had chosen to skip the rest of 2025, and now Monfils has made his own public announcement.

Monfils posted a message to fans after retiring injured at the Chengdu Open, and clearly, he now feels his body can only withstand one final year on the tour.

• READ MORE: Naomi Osaka shares how Gael Monfils treated her in the mixed doubles

Novak Djokovic sends message to Gael Monfils

Djokovic has been as classy as ever after this announcement and sent Monfils a very heartwarming message after this big decision.

If anything, Monfils’ decision might entice Djokovic to keep playing a little while longer, given that he’s still younger than the Frenchman.

After the announcement, Djokovic took to Instagram to send his well-wishes to Monfils as he prepares to call time on his career.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion said: “LaMonf… What a treat it was to watch you every match. You are an amazing human being who brings joy to people on and off the court. That counts more than anything else. Tennis-wise, your athleticism is off the charts. One of the best I have ever seen in all sports. Thank you for all the great battles over the years we had, and enjoy your last dance, my friend.”

Stefanos Tsitsipas reacts to Gael Monfils retirement decision

Tsitsipas has taken to X to post his message of support to Monfils, sharing a remarkable shot played by the Frenchman against him at an exhibition event.

He posted: “Gael Monfils’ hot shots were so spectacular, it was an honour to be on the receiving end of them.”

Now, Monfils will be hoping to get one final shot at the likes of Djokovic and Tsitsipas either in a Grand Slam or in an ATP event during his final year on the tour.

It will be a sad occasion when he walks off the court for the final time but now at least he can enjoy a bit of a farewell tour after a brilliant career.