French tennis player Gael Monfils has been forced to delay the start of his clay season as he has withdrawn late from the Monte Carlo Masters because of a foot issue.Ā
Monfils, a former world No. 6, had been expected to start his clay season this week in Monte Carlo.
Monfils, 35, was scheduled to return to Monte Carlo for the first time since 2016 and make his 11th appearance at the tournament.Ā
Monfils was drawn to meet Hubert Hurkacz in the Monte Carlo first round.Ā
Monfils will be replaced by a lucky loser.Ā
“Hi all, sadly I have had to withdraw from Monte-Carlo following an issue with my foot. Doctors have advised me to rest before it gets more serious. I am planning to be back in time for Madrid ! See you soon,” Monfils announced on Twitter.
Monfils hasn’t played in Monte Carlo since 2016
Monfils reached his first Monte Carlo final in 2016.
Back then, Monfils fell just short of winning his first Monte Carlo title as he was edged out by Rafael Nadal in a three-set final.Ā
Monfils was expected to make his Monte Carlo return this year but an injury halted his plans.Ā
Monfils last played in Miami, where he was beaten by Francisco Cerundolo in the third round.Ā
A few days ago, Monfils opened on how he draws inspiration from his wife Elina Svitolina.Ā
“I am in awe of my wife. Frankly, it is thanks to her that I play. In all transparency, if she hadn’t gone to Indian Wells and Miami, I wouldn’t have gone there either. I can’t even figure out how she could play. It’s exceptional to find so much energy, will in moments like this. Hats off! I tell her every time I follow her example. She has exceptional abilities in life,” Monfils told Le Parisien, as revealed on We Love Tennis.Ā