Playing your last match at a huge event and saying goodbye is always a hard task. That's what happened with this tennis couple. Gaël Monfils’ legendary run at Roland Garros came to an emotional end on Monday as the 39-year-old Frenchman fell to compatriot Hugo Gaston in a five-set thriller, 6-2, 6-3, 3-6, 2-6, 6-0, marking his final match at the French Open.
In his 19th appearance at the clay-court major, Monfils thrilled the home crowd with flashes of his signature athleticism and flair before the younger wild card pulled away in the decider. The loss capped a heartfelt farewell to Porte d’Auteuil, where Monfils has long been a fan favorite known for his showmanship and memorable moments.
Watch: Tennis star Gael Monfils’ emotional Roland Garros goodbye leaves wife Svitolina in tears
The post-match ceremony and preceding tributes overflowed with emotion, particularly for Monfils’ wife, Elina Svitolina, who was visibly moved to tears while watching her husband address the crowd and soak in the ovation.
During the star-studded “Gaël & Friends” event earlier in the week and in final reflections, Monfils paid tribute to his family, with Svitolina having shared a touching letter to their daughter calling him “a magician.”
The Ukrainian star, who has supported him throughout his farewell season, struggled to contain her emotions as highlights of his career played and he bid goodbye to the tournament that defined much of his journey.
Monfils, who announced his retirement at the end of the 2026 season, leaves Roland Garros with a rich legacy that includes a 2008 semifinal appearance, multiple deep runs, and countless highlight-reel moments that entertained generations of fans.
ALSO READ: Did Anastasia Potapova just refuse to join Sabalenka, Swiatek, Gauff, Sinner in Roland Garros media protest?