In an emotional and dramatic conclusion to a two-decade-long association, French tennis icon Gael Monfils has bid a final farewell to the Australian Open. The 39-year-old's last campaign at Melbourne Park ended in a gripping first-round defeat to Australian qualifier Dane Sweeny on Tuesday, 20th January 2026.
A Marathon Match Seals the End of an Era
The capacity crowd at Kia Arena was treated to one last spectacular show from the ever-popular Monfils, who led by a set and a break before ultimately falling to a determined Sweeny. The final scoreline read 6-7 (3), 7-5, 6-4, 7-5 in favour of the 24-year-old local, who secured his maiden Grand Slam main draw victory in stunning fashion. The nearly four-hour battle saw Monfils, competing in his 20th Australian Open and 69th Grand Slam overall, push hard but ultimately be outlasted.
In a poignant break with tradition, Monfils remained on court after his opponent's interview to address his adoring fans directly. "For me, my journey started long ago," Monfils reflected. "Now we are 2026 and somehow it’s the finish line." The Frenchman had announced prior to the tournament that this would be his final season on the professional tour.
Sweeny's Grit Outshines Monfils' Flair
In a remarkable twist, Sweeny managed to beat the veteran at his own game. Renowned for his incredible athleticism and retrieval skills, Monfils found himself matched by the younger player's relentless scrambling, full-stretch gets, and an uncanny ability to hit winners from defensive positions. While Monfils produced some of his classic leaping forehands, including one that echoed a shot played by Novak Djokovic a day earlier, they were too infrequent to shift the momentum permanently.
The atmosphere was electric, with Monfils' 'Tribune Bleue' supporters waving French flags and chanting his name, competing with vocal Australian fans in yellow and green, some even brandishing inflatable kangaroos. Monfils also had the support of his wife, women's world number 12 Elina Svitolina, from his player's box.
Legacy of a Fan Favourite
Monfils leaves the Australian Open having crafted a legacy as one of the tournament's most beloved and entertaining figures. His career highlights in Melbourne include quarter-final runs in 2016 and 2021. Globally, he reached the semi-finals of both Roland Garros and the US Open. His unique brand of athletic shot-making and never-say-die spirit, evidenced by a strong five-set record, has inspired a generation of players and fans alike.
"Thank-you so much for this amazing ride. I’ve got a lot of great memories here. Big battles, quarterfinals," Monfils told the Melbourne crowd. "Very lucky to play here for many years. Merci beaucoup." With that, the curtain fell on one of tennis's most charismatic careers at the season's first Grand Slam.
