Alex de Minaur and Alexander Zverev send Gael Monfils heartfelt messages after his final match in Acapulco

Gael Monfils received a fitting farewell ceremony after playing his final-ever match at the Mexican Open.

The legendary 40-year-old confirmed he would retire at the end of the year, with his final tournament predicted to be the Paris Masters.

The Frenchman appeared at the Mexican Open in Acapulco, where he defeated Damir Džumhur and lost to Valentin Vacherot.

After being knocked out of the tournament, several top ATP stars sent the Frenchman messages as he waved goodbye to Acapulco for good.

Gael Monfils’ fitting send-off at the Mexican Open

The Mexican Open pulled out all the stops in Acapulco as they waved farewell to Monfils for the final time.

Former Grand Slam champion Juan Martin del Potro even appeared to take part in the ceremony for the Frenchman.

Appearing in pre-filmed segments, many of the ATP Tour’s top stars took time out to send a message to Monfils.

Alex de Minaur said: “Thank you, Gael, for being an absolute legend. An absolute icon. One of the best human beings I’ve met. You’re an absolute legend.”

Alexander Zverev, meanwhile was just as passionate with his message for the departing legend.

“I would like to say thank you for what you’ve done on the tennis court, what you brought to the tennis fans,” he added. “Happy retirement!”

The likes of Frances Tiafoe, Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, and Grigor Dimitrov also sent messages to Monfils.

Gael Monfils epic tennis career in numbers

Monfils might not have won a Grand Slam in his career, but his longevity on the ATP Tour is simply incredible.

The Frenchman turned professional in 2005 and he’s been an ever-present part of the ATP Tour since, delighting fans with his entertaining style.

Monfils’ career brought him 13 career titles, all of which were either ATP 250 or 500 events.

The star never won a Masters title, although he did reach three finals, two of which were on home soil at the Paris Masters.

Monfils reached a career ranking high of World No. 6 in 2016, and he remains one of the best players to never win a Grand Slam.

His best performances at major tournaments came at the US Open and Roland Garros, where he reached the semi-final.