Gael Monfils has a message for Juan Martin del Potro after spotting him at his Acapulco farewell

Valentin Vacherot ended Gael Monfils’ final run at the Acapulco Open in what will be the Frenchman’s last appearance at the event.

Monfils has already stated that he plans to hang up his racket after the 2026 season, with the Paris Masters expected to be his farewell tournament.

Following his exit from the round of 16 in this year’s ATP 500 event, Monfils was honoured with a special ceremony. The tribute included a few familiar faces and tributes from some of his closest rivals and friends.

Juan Martin del Potro was there for the occasion and took a moment to pay tribute to Monfils, sharing a message with fans.

Gael Monfils praises Juan Martin del Potro during Acapulco farewell

Monfils, alongside Stan Wawrinka, is one of the last remaining players from a memorable era that also featured the likes of Del Potro, Roger Federer, and Rafael Nadal.

Del Potro’s presence at Monfils’ final appearance in Acapulco felt appropriate, given their status as two of the most notable players outside tennis’s ‘Big Three.’

After noticing the Argentine in the crowd during his ceremony at the Mexican Open, Monfils said: “We had big battles. He’s a big champion.

“For me, it means a lot that you’re here, that you send messages. Thank you so much Juan Martin and thank you to the others as well.”

The Frenchman lost his opening-round match in Acapulco before falling to Vacherot in straight sets in his next match.

Head-to-head: Gael Monfils v Juan Martin del Potro

Even though both players enjoyed long careers on the ATP Tour, Monfils and del Potro only faced off twice in official matches.

Their only two meetings came back-to-back at the same event, with del Potro coming out on top both times.

In Rotterdam, the Argentine claimed straight-set wins in both 2013 and 2014.

In 2013, del Potro’s win over Monfils was part of a run that ended with him lifting his only title at that event.

That week, he also notched victories against Grigor Dimitrov and Ernests Gulbis before beating Julien Benneteau in the final.

Read more: