Gael Monfils shares something about him that even surprised his wife Elina Svitolina

Gael Monfils says even his wife Elina Svitolina was surprised when she realized that he was “a perfectionist” and someone who could sometimes become “too serious.” Monfils, who is one of the funniest personalities and most entertaining players on the Tour, suggests people have the wrong impression about him. According to 37-year-old Monfils, he can be the most hardworking and serious player when he is committed to something. “Above everything, I’m a perfectionist. Generally, people, and even my wife, thought, ‘That’s funny!’ Not only am I serious, but sometimes too serious. People feel like I am, let’s say, absent-minded. The reason is that yes, I enjoy my life. But I am really able to dedicate myself when the moment comes. I remember myself spending so many hours on court to erase my weaknesses. “People don’t realize that I have had a long journey,” Monfils said on UTS’ podcast All on the Table, via Tennis Majors.

Gael Monfils© Getty Images Sport – Matthew Stockman

Benoit Paire backs Monfils’ claims 

Paire, who was speaking with Monfils at the event, confirmed that the 37-year-old Frenchman is indeed truthful in his hard work claims. “If he reached the top 10, it’s because he worked. We had some practice sessions together, like, in January. I just could not follow the pace. The workload he is able to take on, I know very few people able to do the same,” Paire said. Meanwhile, Monfils suffered a second-round defeat at the US Open. Monfils, who turned 37 earlier this month, said he would like to play pro tennis until he is 40. Also, Monfils revealed his daughter Skai – who will be turning one in October – will likely factor in how long he remains in pro tennis. “You know, my daughter – she lives her best moments now. I feel like when she will be a little older, it will be better for me if she can travel with me. If that’s the case, maybe I’ll play as long as I want,” Monfils said.