Tennis showman Gaël Monfils played his final grand slam match on Thursday, falling in straight sets to Learner Tien in the second round of the US Open.

Gaël Monfils concluded his 22-year grand slam career on Thursday night with a 6-3, 6-4, 6-3 loss to No 14 seed Learner Tien at the US Open. The 40-year-old, who previously announced his intention to retire at the end of this season, was defeated in straight sets at Louis Armstrong Stadium. Monfils, a former world No 6, entered the tournament on a wildcard and exits as one of the most decorated players to never win a major title.

A Career Defined by Style

Throughout his career, Monfils became known for his athletic movement and signature showmanship, including tweeners and mid-air forehands. He reached the semi-finals of a grand slam twice, at Roland Garros in 2008 and the US Open in 2016. Across his career, he won nearly 600 singles matches and earned $25 million.

Final US Open Appearance

In his final grand slam run, Monfils defeated 60th-ranked Adolfo Daniel Vallejo in the first round on his 40th birthday, becoming the oldest man to win a US Open match since 1992. His second-round opponent, 20-year-old Learner Tien, utilized a patient, defensive strategy to wear down the Frenchman. Following the match, tournament organizers held an on-court ceremony to honor Monfils, who announced he plans to transition into a career in Swiss wealth management.