At 37, Gael Monfils is entering the final stages of his professional tennis journey. In what has been a memorable career for the Frenchman, he has enthralled tennis fans all over the world. While adhering to his career duties, Monfils welcomed his first child in 2022. His wife, Elina Svitolina gave birth to their daughter Skai. Keeping all the family responsibilities in mind, Monfils made a major revelation about fatherhood.

Both Monfils and Svitolina have been quite open about the upbringing of their daughter. Additionally, they often share adorable glimpses with their little one. Here’s what Monfils had to say about balancing career with fatherhood.

Gael Monfils chooses fatherhood over career

Monfils is currently in Australia to participate in the Australian Open. During a pre-tournament interview, he revealed that he is nearing the end of his career, with other duties going up on the priority list. Even though Monfils loves tennis, he also understands that life is ultimately bigger than his profession.

Talking about this, Monfils said, “I want to stop tennis for so many years… I love my sport, but it’s not my life and people forget that. My life is being a dad (…) To be completely honest, what matters today is my child’s education.” Setting his priorities straight, Monfils is willing to progress in life more as a father than as a tennis player.

Going by Monfils’ latest revelation, it looks like this may be the final season of his illustrious career. However, he’ll look to make it big Down Under when he plays in the Australian Open. Monfils has made it to the main draw of the tournament and will take on Germany’s Yannick Hanfmann in the opening round. 

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Meanwhile, Monfils has been quite open about his daughter’s career choices. Having athletic parents, with both Monfils and Svitolina being top players, Skai is sure to pick sporting qualities from them. However, Monfils has a rather conservative approach when it comes to his daughter’s career choices.

What did Monfils say about Skai’s career choices?

During an interview, the Frenchman made a candid revelation about what career he hopes his daughter chooses. Unlike many parents, Monfils didn’t want his daughter to follow in the footsteps of her parents.

Elaborating on this subject, Monfils said, “She’ll do what she wants. Deep inside, I hope she picks up something besides a tennis racquet. Golf, soccer. Basketball. I wish she can try another sport, to be honest.”

Both Gael Monfils and Elina Svitolina will be seen in action at the Australian Open. Will Monfils get to have one last laugh before he ends his career? Let us know your views in the comments below.

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