'I think a whole year of knowing that would stress me out' - Jessica Pegula gives her thoughts on Gael Monfils' farewell tour in 2026

Frenchman Gael Monfils revealed he would be retiring at the end of the 2026 season, with his hometown Paris Masters likely playing host to his final act. The beloved ATP star's announcement was met with a mixed response, with several sad to see him hang up his racket but pleased he chose to go out on his own terms.

WTA stars Jessica Pegula and Madison Keys chimed in on the topic of retirement, with both Americans making an appearance on The Player’s Box Podcast. Pegula, who has hinted she would not be competing past the age of 35 years old, was pleased with his decision but added in her case, she would make her retirement announcement much closer to the final date.

"I thought it was sick. I thought the video was really cool,” said the 31-year old about Monfils’ announcement video. “Elena talking French. It was like a movie, it was awesome. I feel like he is going out and I like the way he is doing it. He is going to have a whole year where everyone is just going to be super excited but sad to see him go. I feel like he is going to get a lot of good courts, bigger courts. It seems cool.

"I think with his personality it fits. I think it just depends on the person. I think a whole year of knowing that would stress me out. I maybe would do half a year, like the last half of the year if I did make an announcement. A full year is a lot. But I feel that is so him. He is going to put on a show every match he plays. I’m sure he will play a somewhat limited schedule."

Keys would prefer a more direct approach to retirement

The reigning Australian Open suggested she too would not want a whole year of saying goodbyes before eventually hanging up her racket.

"I guess my thing is would you want people to know that every single match at every tournament is your last match at that tournament?" queried Keys. "So it’s a thing for the whole year. I think I personally will just be like all of a sudden walk into a press conference and say that was it. Bye!”

Monfils has enjoyed a successful career on the ATP Tour that has spanned over two decades. The 39-year old has 13 ATP singles titles to his name, reaching a career-high ranking of World No.6 in 2016. Additionally, he has made at least the fourth round at every Grand Slam event, with his best results being semifinal appearances at the 2008 French Open and 2016 US Open.