Defending Champion Gael Monfils To Return To ASB Classic In Auckland

French superstar Gael Monfils, who thrilled fans on the way to victory at the ASB Classic in Auckland earlier this year, will defend his title in January.

Monfils is the first player announced for the 2026 ASB Classic with tickets on sale from today for the WTA Women’s event from January 5 to 11 and the ATP Men’s tournament from January 12 to 17 at the Manuka Doctor Arena.

The Frenchman is currently competing in his 21st season as a professional, beginning the year with victory at the ASB Classic, where he became the oldest player to win a title on the ATP Tour.

The 38-year-old has never finished a season outside the Top 100 since he joined the ATP Tour in 2004. Monfils has won 13 ATP titles, reached a career-high ranking of No. 6 and has won his way to at least one final in 20 consecutive seasons.

Monfils, who turns 39 in September, is the only current player to have achieved these accomplishments. Last year he also became the record holder for most major wins by a French player.

The Frenchman remains one of the fastest and most flamboyant players on the Tour.

“I love the game. I love to compete. I am very passionate and I love waking up and getting ready for matches so I can be the best that I can. I feel that is what keeps me going,” Monfils said in confirming his entry for the 2026 ASB Classic.

“Of course I still want to win tournaments. Obviously, I want to keep on enjoying it, and keep playing more-and-more great matches against great players. For me I want to keep on enjoying playing.”

Following his victory in Auckland this year, he reached the round of 16 at the Australian Open. In doing so, the Frenchman prevailed three tiebreakers in his five-set win over wonderkid Mpetshi Perricard and a four-set win over American World #4 Taylor Fritz including two tiebreaks.

Monfils retains positive memories of his title win at the ASB Classic, as well as his time in Auckland.

“I still remember the tournament fondly. It was an amazing week and I played some amazing tennis,” he said in confirming his return to the ASB Classic.

“I got lucky because I was down a set and a break in the first round against Pedro Martinez but somehow, I found a solution.

“This title means a lot to me. It was definitely a week I will not forget. I love the tournament.”

Tournament Director, Nicolas Lamperin said the ASB Classic is thrilled to have Monfils return.

“It is good to have a champion back. However at nearly 39, we should not take for granted that he will play forever, and we should enjoy watching him while we can.

“He is a wonderful person and still perhaps the most entertaining player in the world,” said Lamperin. “We could not have hoped for a better or bigger name to announce as we go on sale.

“I am in negotiations with a range of players for both tournaments, and we expect to confirm several others in the coming weeks.”

Lamperin said that the increased court size and new replacement grandstand will also add value to the centre-court experience at the ASB Classic.

Tickets are on sale from today at https://asbclassic.flicket.co.nz – including tickets and hospitality opportunities for both the WTA and ATP events.

Vision: www.youtube.com/watch?v=SLgvchfodqk - Why everyone loves Gael Monfils

Details: www.asbclassic.co.nz

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