Gael Monfils has declared he is “immensely proud” after he was unveiled as France’s new Davis Cup captain shortly following his retirement from tennis.
Last month, it emerged that Monfils had called time on his career when the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) added the Frenchman to its ‘retired’ list and confirmed he had removed himself from the sport’s anti-doping protocols.
The French Tennis Federation (FFT) announced on Saturday that Monfils had been appointed as the captain of France’s Davis Cup team.
In a statement, Monfils said: “I am immensely proud to become captain of the French team. This blue jersey means so much to me.
“I want to build a genuine team-based project and create the momentum that will enable us to win titles together.”
Monfils has replaced fellow retired ATP player Paul-Henri Mathieu as captain, and he will get his first taste of action in his new role when France’s 2027 Davis Cup qualifying campaign begins in February.
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Monfils’ last-ever match was a second round loss to Learner Tien at the US Open in September.
The 40-year-old’s retirement came earlier than expected as he had previously revealed his plan was to bow out at the Paris Masters.
It was later revealed that Monfils’ quiet exit from the sport was a result of his separation from his wife Elina Svitolina.
While Monfils did not compete at the 2026 Paris Masters, he appeared at the tournament on Tuesday for an on-court farewell ceremony.
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