Home/Tennis

via Reuters

via Reuters

Over the years, Gael Monfils has enthralled tennis fans with his athleticism on the tennis court. Boasting a never-say-die attitude, he wins rallies that look the most impossible to win. Further, in a career spanning around 20 years now, the French tennis star has consistently been among the elite group in men’s tennis.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

The 35-year-old has had a mixed 2022 season. He started the year by winning the Adelaide International 1 tournament. Subsequently, he reached the quarterfinals of the Australian Open before going down fighting against Matteo Berrettini. Monfils had a fourth-round and a third-round exit in Indian Wells and Miami, respectively. Further, in his only clay-court tournament this season, Monfils lost in the second round of the Madrid Open against Novak Djokovic. Recently, he had some grim news for his fans.

DIVE DEEPER: ‘Good Company’ – Venus Williams Welcomes Iga Swiatek to the Elite Club That Includes the Likes of Serena Williams, Herself, Victoria Azarenka, and Justine Henin

Gael Monfils withdraws from the French Open

The Frenchman took to Twitter to update his fans regarding his participation in the clay-court Grand Slam tournament. He said, “Hi all, I regret to inform you that I am forced to withdraw from Open Parc de Lyon and the French Open next week. I have been bothered by a calcaneal spur since Monte-Carlo at my right heel which prevents me from moving properly on court.”

USA Today via Reuters

Further, he added, “I have decided to undergo a small procedure this week to treat the issue before returning to competitive play. I will keep you updated about my progress when I have more news.”

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Moreover, fans at the French Open will miss their local hero in action. Monfils is the best-ranked French player in the world and his absence has put a major blow to the local hopes. However, Monfils will aim to get back fit in time for the grass-court season.

Elina Svitolina and Monfils set to welcome a baby girl

The Ukrainian-French couple is set to welcome a baby girl later this year. Further, announcing this delightful news, Svitolina took to Twitter and said, “With a heart full of love and happiness, we are delighted to announce that we are expecting a baby girl in October.”

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

WATCH THIS STORY: Will Smith Shows How King Richard Cast Trained Like Serena and Venus Williams

This has been great news for the couple, who married in July last year. Monfils will take time off the court to be with his wife.