MERCI, MONFILS: FRENCHMAN SAYS FINAL FAREWELL TO CINCY

By Grant Thompson

Gael Monfils completed his 14th and final appearance at the Cincinnati Open on Thursday, bringing an emotional close to his time in Ohio. Set to retire at the end of this season, the 39-year-old was honored on P&G Center Court following his final Cincinnati match.

“It’s been a real pleasure,” Monfils said, addressing the crowd after his three-set defeat to Rinky Hijikata. “For so many years, I came here to Cincinnati and always felt like you guys were cheering for me, so thank you so much for all those years.”

During the on-court farewell, tournament director Bob Moran presented a gift to Monfils.

Monfils, former World No. 6, made his first Cincinnati appearance as an 18-year-old wild card in 2005.

“I think one of the first times I came here, I lost a big match against Ivo [Karlovic]. I remember it was a tough one [in 2009],” Monfils said when addressing the media. “I played a really good match against Roger in 2014, three sets. I played Novak a couple times. Had good wins over Alex de Minaur, Popyrin, Norrie. 

“I feel like it was quite fun to play here. I remember a match [in 2006] against Marcos Baghdatis. I played Marat Safin on Grandstand [that year] on Grandstand, I remember. I had good memories here.”

Turning 40 on September 1, Monfils has long been a fan favorite in Cincinnati and around the world. Known for his electric style of play and lighthearted personality, Monfils’ best run in Cincy came in 2011, when he reached the quarterfinals.

One of Monfils’ most memorable Cincinnati moments came in 2024, when he stunned Carlos Alcaraz in three sets for a signature win at the Lindner Family Tennis Center. “It’s been an absolute pleasure for me,” he reiterated.

How does Monfils want to be remembered?

“I try to be myself. I try to be Gael Monfils,” he said. “I feel like I’m a joyful person and I try to enjoy myself on court and give the best that I can that day. As they want, they will remember me.”