In a quieter farewell than many anticipated, Gaël Monfils concluded his illustrious career with a straight-sets defeat to Learner Tien at the US Open on Thursday night. The match ended with scores of 6-3, 6-4, 6-3, marking the end of Monfils’s 22-year journey in professional tennis.

The 40-year-old Frenchman, who announced his retirement after this season, faced a challenging opponent in the 14th seed Tien. The young American wore Monfils down with long rallies and relentless movement, ultimately proving to be too much for the veteran. Despite the result, Monfils kept the crowd engaged, expressing pride in his performance and appreciation for the “unbelievable atmosphere.”

Reflecting on his career, Monfils noted:

You always want to give a little bit more... I gave my absolute all, but Learner was a really tough one tonight.

Monfils debuted at the US Open in 2005 and had previously reached the semi-finals of a Grand Slam only twice. He holds nearly 600 singles wins and has earned $25 million throughout his career. Known for his exciting playing style, he garnered a loyal fanbase despite not securing a major title.

The match showcased Monfils’s struggle against fatigue, as he exhibited signs of exhaustion, notably during extended rallies. Tien capitalized on Monfils’s unforced errors, particularly in the second set, where Monfils recorded 22 unforced errors. Despite the defeat, Monfils’s resilience shone through, and the match concluded with a ceremonial tribute from tournament organizers, celebrating his contributions to the sport.

As Monfils transitions to life after tennis, he announced plans for an office job with a Swiss wealth management company, leaving behind a legacy marked by joy and entertainment in the sport. His final moments on the court were a mix of nostalgia and laughter, embodying the spirit of a true showman.