New Delhi: Frenchman Gael Monfils bid farewell to the Australian Open with a heartbreaking opening-round exit after losing a captivating contest against rising Australian star Dane Sweeney. 39-year-old Monfils, who, last year, announced that the 2026 AO will be his last appearance at Melbourne Park, started well by winning the opening set, but buoyed by the home support at the Kia Arena, Sweeney fought back to win the next three sets and eventually claimed the match 6-7 (3-7), 7-5, 6-4, 7-5.

While Monfils would be disappointed to make an early exit in his 20th and final Australian Open, Sweeney would be over the moon after recording s his first win at a Major. Monfils, a fan favourite at Melbourne Park, bowed out to a standing ovation. His best run at the Australian Open came in 2016 and 2022, when he reached the quarterfinals.

A forever entertainer and keeper of innovative shots with the moves of Jagger – Gael Monfils, you’ll be missed at the #AusOpen 💙 pic.twitter.com/ipJAUdCCeE

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen)

The veteran Frenchman was felicitated in a special presentation ceremony following the match.

For 24-year-old Sweeney, it was a dream-come-true moment in front of his home crowd.

“Win or lose I just wanted to realise how lucky I was,” Sweeny said in the post-match chat with the presenter.

“Above all I’m just so grateful to play in front of you guys and compete on the big stage.”

“I feel like I’m watching a show right now .… it feels unreal to be in this position,” he added.

Australia will miss you, @Gael_Monfils 🫡@AustralianOpen | #AO26 pic.twitter.com/hbneVHxQmO

— ATP Tour (@atptour)

Widely regarded as the “greatest showman” in tennis history, Monfils made his first Australian Open appearance more than two decades ago in 2005. Age finally caught up to the highly energetic and flamboyant player, who fell to an injury-hampered loss to the local qualifier.

Two images. Same Grand Slam. 21 years apart 📸🥹

Gael Monfils just played out his last ever AO match having announced his retirement at the end of 2026.

Thank you for all the memories, Gael. pic.twitter.com/g6Tl0NwpQe

— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen)

Monfils showed flashes of his trademark style and somehow stretched the match to 3 hours and 51 minutes, being severely restricted in his movement.

“My journey started in 2003 with you guys, now we are in 2026 and somehow it’s the finish line. Thank you so much for this amazing ride, you guys have been unbelievable,” said Monfils.

“I’ve got a lot of great memories here … I’ve been very lucky to play here for many years. Thank you very much.”