Gael Monfils has been one of tennis’ most entertaining figures for the past two decades, but sadly, this year will be his last on tour.
The Frenchman is currently in his final season and at the age of 39, he has enjoyed a memorable career with moments that have thrilled fans and highlights that will live long in the memory.
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He might have significantly scaled back his schedule lately, but his presence on tour will still be missed.
But thanks to his wife, Elina Svitolina, we now have a better idea of what he plans to do next.
Elina Svitolina shares Gael Monfils’ retirement plan
Photo by Robert Prange/Getty Images
During a chat with Mark Petchey on the Big T podcast, the Ukrainian was more than happy to share a bit about her husband, especially since returning from an injury break in such strong form.
“He’s good,” she began, before highlighting how much he’s enjoying spending more time at home with their daughter.
Svitolina continued: “It’s great to see him off court and just being and enjoying it.
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“So, of course, you know, lots of pressure for him for this year, but also I think very special moments for him. And especially with Roland Garros coming up, it’s going to be special for everybody. So we’re going to save some tears for that occasion.”
“But I think it’s just incredible to be next to him and really supporting him on this journey.”
Asked by Petchey what Monfils had planned after stepping away from tennis, Svitolina offered a clear response: “Yeah, he is ready for it. He cannot wait for the journey. He already knows what he is going to do. He’s going into finance.
“He has been talking about it and looking forward to it already. And you know I think he is the kind of person that thinks quite a few steps ahead – so am I – so I would say we are in good shape as far as that goes.
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French tennis looks well placed for life after Gael Monfils
While fans will certainly feel the loss of one of the sport’s most popular personalities, there is plenty of reason to believe French tennis will be just fine.
Just last month, Arthur Fils matched a long-standing record held by Monfils, in what felt like a clear changing-of-the-guard moment.
The 21-year-old has bounced back from an injury-hit 2025 season in impressive fashion and is already being talked about as a potential challenger to the likes of Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz.
The two players have spoken before, with Fils saying last year:
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“He has helped me a lot, both on and off the court, to become a good man and grow up. He’s a very kind person, and when I was young, I used to watch him play.”
“The incredible points he made… For us French, he’s a legend.”
And as far back as 2023, Monfils had said: “I’ve known him for a long time. We’ve been chatting, even before he cracked the Top 100 and before he won his first title. I always told him: ‘Feel free to call me.’ He’s from France so I want to protect him.”
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