Gael Monfils retires to bring unfortunate end to record-breaking Australian Open run
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Monfils was struggling with a back injury at the start of the fourth set as Ben Shelton advanced to the quarter-finals. Record-breaking Gael Monfils retired from his Australian Open fourth round match against young American Ben Shelton, as the 38-year-old’s epic run in Melbourne came to an unfortunate end.
An ailing Monfils received a standing ovation as he left the court after trailing 6-7 7-6 6-7 1-0 early in the fourth set. The Frenchman, who last week became the oldest player to win an ATP tour title, had nothing left to give and struggled with a back injury after being dragged into a three-hour battle by the big-serving Shelton.
Monfils had rolled back the years at the Australian Open with his victories over fourth seed Taylor Fritz, Daniel Altmaier and Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard to become the oldest man to reach the fourth round in Melbourne since Roger Federer. He had also won eight matches in a row, following his surprise title in Auckland.
Monfils and Shelton smiled as they shook hands at the net and the 22-year-old was complimentary of the veteran’s efforts in the match. “Gael is a great guy, I’ve watched him since I was a kid,” Shelton said. “I’ve always said he has the best highlights-reel of all time and we saw some of that tonight. At 38, I hope I’ll be able to still be walking without crutches.
