Paris: Their movement on the red clay has slowed and recovery takes longer, yet the French audience continues to admire them. Stan Wawrinka and Gael Monfils featured in several memorable matches at Roland Garros in recent years. The two players return for their last appearance at the tournament after declaring they will end their careers at the close of the season.
Both have fallen in the rankings. Wawrinka, 41 and a three-time major winner, captured the title here in 2015 and now stands at world number 119. Monfils, 39, reached the semifinals in 2008 and reached the quarterfinals three additional times. Ranked 221, he was granted a wild card for this event.
Known for his flashy game, determination and athletic gifts, Monfils remains popular with home crowds at the tournament where he first appeared more than two decades ago. He has not matched the achievement of Yannick Noah, the last French champion in 1983, but has seldom let down local supporters.
Novak Djokovic noted on Friday that few dislike Monfils and called him one of his favorite players to watch because of his remarkable athleticism. Monfils holds a 40-17 record at the event since 2005 and opens against compatriot Hugo Gaston.
Three years ago, returning from heel surgery at number 394 and without a major win in over a year, he defeated Sebastian Baez in a nearly four-hour battle. Last year he overcame a two-set deficit against Hugo Dellien to set the Open-era record for five-set victories here with 12.
Monfils told fans this week he lacked the strength to claim a Grand Slam title yet felt he gained more by building a career he values. His wife Elena Svitolina said he always dreamed of performing before French crowds and will feel nerves but plans to enjoy the occasion.
Wawrinka connects with spectators through his straightforward manner and fluent French, while his one-handed backhand continues to draw praise. He described growing up watching the event and called it part of his identity. The 21-time participant faces Arthur Fils in round one.
His 2015 triumph, which included victories over Roger Federer and Djokovic, remains widely recalled. He noted he lacked confidence entering that fortnight yet stayed present and produced his best tennis. Fans also remember the pink-checkered shorts he wore that year, which may or may not return this week.
