Gael Monfils will always be remembered as one of tennis’ most technically gifted athletes, and one of its greatest-ever entertainers.
Therefore, it is sad to see the way in which his career has fizzled out.
Following the US Open, it was no surprise to see the Frenchman opt out of playing the Asian swing, with it long expected that these final few weeks of the season would represent his proper farewell.
However, for reasons that remain unconfirmed but highly speculated, Gael Monfils has silently ended his career without any fanfare, withdrawing from events in Lyon and Paris.
It marks a sad end to a stellar career, but the Paris Masters tournament director has not lost all hope.
Paris Masters tournament director references Gael Monfils’ retirement
Speaking to AFP, Cedric Pioline offered his brief view on Monfils’ shock retirement.
Whilst the chances of him making a remarkable return were slim anyway, he all but confirmed his absence. However, he stopped short of ruling out any appearance, offering an opportunity if he wanted to take it.
The director claimed: “For now, we don’t have any more news than that and we respect his difficult time in his life.
“We still have a little bit of time, even though the tournament will start soon. We have accepted that he has retired. We will adapt as soon as there is contact.”
That being said, Monfils will appear in Stan Wawrinka’s retirement exhibition match in December.
Why Gael Monfils actually isn’t allowed to play at the Paris Masters anymore
Whilst Pioline may have offered this lifeline, it could only be in an exhibition capacity, as Monfils is actually unable to compete in tour-level events anymore.
After all, the head of communication at the ITIA told French sports newspaper L’Equipe: “He (Monfils) informed us about it; he is now considered retired and is no longer authorised to participate in tournaments.
“Technically, he would need to undergo six months of out-of-competition testing before being able to return to the competition. Just like Serena Williams did.”
So, with that in mind, as kind as this Pioline offer may seem, Monfils is officially retired, and there is no way back for him now at the official Paris Masters.