“Everyone adores him”: Djokovic and an emotional tribute to Monfils in his last season as a professional

Gael Monfils At 39 years old, he is going through his last season as a professional tennis player. The Frenchman, who knew how to be champion of 13 ATP titles and be in the Top 10 of the world rankings, had a fleeting time in the Indian Wells Masters 1000from where he said goodbye forever. And from the California desert, Novak Djokovic He paid a nice tribute to him with some emotional words.

“He is one of the few tennis players older than me on the circuit, along with (Stan) Wawrinka. I mean, these guys, and now we are talking about Gael, he deserves all the applause and all the recognition, not only for what he has done on the tennis court and his exceptional athletic ability, but also for being one of the most athletic tennis players who has ever held a racket, in my opinion, and one of the most exciting players to watch” The 24-time Grand Slam tournament winner began by expressing.

Djokovicfrom the same generation as Monfilshas faced the Frenchman 20 times between 2005 and 2025, where one of the most uneven rivalries in the history of tennis has been generated. The Serbian won all the duels in which they played. Despite that, Nole always showed great appreciation for the Frenchman, whom he continued to praise.

“I don’t think anyone dislikes watching Gael play tennis because you never know what to expect. I think that’s what sparked so much interest and also a lot of smiles in people watching him play. But also, his character traits and values. He’s a very nice guy, and literally no one I know in the last 20 years has had any problem or conflict with him. That says a lot about him, who he is as a person, and he has always enjoyed the great respect of all his fellow tennis players. Everyone adores him.” Novak said in his monologue about the Frenchman, who today is ranked No. 148.

Although it is not known exactly what the next tournaments will be Monfils in the circuit, you are expected to receive a wildcard to play the main draw of the Miami Open, where he became a quarterfinalist in 2016. “He deserves to play this year the way he wants and say goodbye to tennis in the way that seems most appropriate to him. I hope that the public gives him the support he deserves in each tournament” hill Djokovic.

All the activity of the Indian Wells Masters 1000 can be followed LIVE on Disney+ Premium Plan.