PARIS — Perennial crowd favourite and former world No. 6-ranked Gael Monfils says he will retire at the end of the 2026 tennis season.

At 39, the French veteran renowned for his spectacular style of play and athleticism announced Wednesday in a message posted on social media that “the year ahead will be my last as a professional tennis player.”

“I held a racket in my hands for the first time at two and a half, and began playing professionally at 18,” Monfils wrote. “The opportunity to turn my passion into a profession is a privilege I have cherished during every match and moment of my 21-year career. Though this game means the world to me, I am tremendously as peace with my decision.”

Monfils has won 13 titles. His best results at Grand Slam tournaments are two semifinals, at the 2008 F

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