Monfils Reflects: ‘I Have Come A Long Way’

Preparing for his 13th and final appearance at the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters, French showman Gael Monfils had little trouble recalling who he played in his debut as a wild card more than 20 years ago in 2005.

“I played Rafa first round,” Monfils told ATP Media. “It was straight sets for him. I’ve played a lot of fun matches here. I played Roger, I played Jo-Wil (Tsonga). A lot of matches where I played some great tennis.”

Monfils, 39, lost his first three matches at the tournament before building a solid 15-12 record over his career. He pushed Nadal to three sets in the 2016 final, the year after he beat Roger Federer en route to the semi-finals.

“The first time I came here was 2005, so I have come a long way. I am happy and honoured to play my last match here,” he said.

“I’m trying my best to be competitive and I want to start the clay season well. I want to get as much rhythm as I can and definitely be ready for Paris.”

After 18 wins in 2025, Monfils is a modest 2-4 on the season and 15 wins shy of reaching the 600-wins milestone. He has won 13 titles during his career.

Monfils plays Dutchman Tallon Griekspoor Sunday.