France, Oct. 1 -- French tennis star Gael Monfils announced on Wednesday that he will quit the international circuit at the end of the 2026 season.The 39-year-old made the declaration on social media.

"The opportunity to turn my passion into a profession is a privilege I have cherished during every match and moment of my 21-year career," he wrote.

"Though this game means the world to me, I am tremendously at peace with my decision."

Born Gael Sebastian Monfils on 1 September to Rufin Monfils and Sylvette Cartesse who had come to France from Guadeloupe and Martinique respectively, he grew up with a brother and two sisters in north-eastern Paris.

His genius with a racquet and ball would take him to all four corners of the planet.

He pl...