Gael Monfils, the renowned French tennis player, has captured the hearts of audiences with his exceptional skills on the court for over two decades. However, what many may not know is that the 37-year-old also harbours a deep passion for the art of magic, which rivals his love for tennis. Widely admired for his remarkable shot-making abilities and charming personality, Monfils has proven himself to be a captivating entertainer both during matches and away from the court.
In a recent interview with ATPTour.com, Monfils shared his enduring fascination with magic, a passion that has been with him since his teenage years. It transpires that the 12-time tour-level titlist has been an avid fan of magic shows since his youth, and this interest has only intensified over time. He even harbours dreams of pursuing a career in magic once he decides to retire from professional tennis.
Despite maintaining a relatively discreet profile regarding his love for magic, Monfils is a committed practitioner of this art. He dedicates his free time to perfecting his tricks, often carrying a deck of cards with him while on tour and attending magic shows whenever his schedule permits. In fact, he succeeded in sparking the interest of his wife, WTA star Elina Svitolina, who accompanied him to a magic show early in their relationship.
Sporting a tattoo of a card peeking out from his lower forearm, Monfils has subtly hinted at his affection for magic for years, finding amusement in the fact that it has gone unnoticed. As for his most devoted fan, he asserts that his daughter is the most fascinated by his magical talents, displaying a keen interest in learning the secrets of the trade.
While Monfils continues to excel on the ATP Tour, his unique blend of athleticism and showmanship has cemented his status as a favourite among fans. Nevertheless, behind the scenes, it is evident that his passion for magic adds an additional layer of intrigue to the enigmatic tennis star. Whether he is enthralling crowds with his unconventional playing style or astounding them with a flawlessly executed magic trick, it is undeniable that Gael Monfils is a true master of both the tennis court and the world of illusion.