Gael Monfils played at the BNP Paribas Open for the last time on Friday, falling to Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-7(5), 6-3, 6-4 in the second round.
Amid a tense atmosphere on Court 3 at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden, Auger-Aliassime survived a challenge from the 39-year-old Frenchman to win after two hours and 16 minutes. The ninth-ranked Canadian did not win a serve throughout the match, so one break in the last two sets was enough.
“Tennis Paradise… and it really lives up to its name,” Monfils wrote on social media following his exit.
“Today ends a very important chapter for me in Indian Wells. It was the last time I entered the court here, in a place that has always held a very special place in my heart.
“The first time I came to Indian Wells was in 2005. Being able to come back year after year, feel this unique energy, and play in such an incredible place has always been a real joy and a real privilege.
“Thank you to this tournament for accepting me all these years, and for inviting me again this year.”
