‘Prevents Me From Moving Properly’ – Gael Monfils Provides Grim Update Ahead of French Open 2022

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.

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.

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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.”

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.”

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.”

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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.