Gael Monfils Loses To Home Favourite Dane Sweeny, Bids Emotional Goodbye

French tennis entertainer Gael Monfils ended his remarkable journey at Australian Open 2026 with a 7-6 (7-3) 5-7 4-6 5-7 defeat by Australia's Dane Sweeny. The Australian who sealed his victory with a forehand, has his first main-draw Grand Slam win. Despite being drained and outplayed in the second and third set, Monfils still found the energy to smile and enjoy his Australian Open farewell - heartily congratulating his opponent after the match.

Updated on: 20 January 2026 4:06 pm

Gael Monfils Vs Dane Sweeny Australian Open tennis-1

Gael Monfils of France plays a forehand return to Dane Sweeny of Australia during their first round match at the Australian Open tennis championship in Melbourne, Australia. | Photo: AP/Dita Alangkara

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Gael Monfils Vs Dane Sweeny Australian Open tennis-2

Dane Sweeny of Australia plays a backhand return to Gael Monfils of France during their first round match at the Australian Open tennis championship in Melbourne, Australia. | Photo: AP/Dita Alangkara

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Gael Monfils Vs Dane Sweeny Australian Open tennis-3

Gael Monfils of France serves to Dane Sweeny of Australia during their first round match at the Australian Open tennis championship in Melbourne, Australia. | Photo: AP/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake

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A supporter of Dane Sweeny of Australia reacts during his first round match against Gael Monfils of France at the Australian Open tennis championship in Melbourne, Australia. | Photo: AP/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake

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