Naomi Osaka Makes Heartfelt Tribute to ‘GOAT’ Gael Monfils on Black Representation

Naomi Osaka opened up with genuine warmth during her French Open press conference, calling the retiring veteran Gael Monfils her “GOAT” for the inspiration he provided to Black athletes in tennis. The four-time Grand Slam champion highlighted how seeing players like Monfils and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga succeed on the men’s side meant everything to her growing up, just as Serena and Venus Williams did on the women’s side.

This moment hits deep because representation in a sport that has historically been dominated by certain demographics still carries real weight. Osaka, who has always been vocal about identity, culture, and breaking barriers, used the Roland Garros platform to shine a light on Monfils’ long career as more than just flashy shot-making and athleticism. Osaka said in her press conference:

Honestly, for me, seeing representation is so important. On the women’s side, for me I’ve had Serena and Venus, so I was so grateful to them. On the men’s side I always looked up to him and Tsonga for such a long time. I think it’s just so important and obviously there’s a wave of black French guys coming up. I know for sure he’s inspired a lot of players here. I don’t know. I just love the way he carries himself, the way he represents us. He’s just such a really cool guy and it’s nice to talk to him now because we talk about our kids and I don’t know, it’s just a funny thing to have in common with him.

Osaka didn’t hold back when asked why she often calls Monfils the GOAT. Her response carried that mix of gratitude and sincerity that fans have come to expect from her over the years.

Naomi Osaka says Gael Monfils was always someone she looked up to along with Serena & Venus Williams, and Tsonga, ‘Seeing representation is so important’

“You refer to Gael as the GOAT often. Can you explain that please? And I'm curious about his importance to you as a young… pic.twitter.com/dbe8ffRQuC

— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) May 23, 2026

It’s easy to see why this resonates. Tennis can feel exclusive at times, but players like Monfils brought charisma, flair, and unapologetic personality to the court. He made the sport exciting and accessible.

Gael Monfils’ enduring career and impact on French Tennis

At 39, Gael Monfils is wrapping up a remarkable journey in 2026. The Frenchman reached a career-high ranking of No. 6, won 13 ATP titles, and delivered some of the most entertaining matches in modern tennis. His highlight-reel athleticism, those leaping volleys, between-the-legs shots, and never-say-die rallies earned him a massive global fanbase.

He made deep runs at the majors, including semifinals at the 2008 French Open and 2016 US Open. But beyond the results, Monfils stood out as a showman who brought joy to the game. In an era of intense rivalries and physical grind, he reminded everyone that tennis could be fun.

His influence on the current generation of French players is undeniable. Arthur Fils, seeded at Roland Garros this year, Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, and young talents like 16-year-old Moise Kouame represent that “wave” Osaka mentioned. Monfils and Tsonga helped normalize Black excellence in French tennis, paving the way for these guys to step into the spotlight without it feeling like such a novelty.

It’s bittersweet timing. Monfils announced his retirement at the end of the 2026 season, and Roland Garros rolled out the red carpet with a star-studded “Gael & Friends” exhibition on Court Philippe-Chatrier.

Osaka joined the likes of Jannik Sinner, Novak Djokovic, Elina Svitolina, and others to celebrate the veteran. The night mixed tennis, music, tributes, and plenty of laughs, showing just how beloved “La Monf” is across the sport.

Naomi Osaka’s own journey and advocacy for inclusion

For Naomi Osaka, this tribute comes at a meaningful point in her career. The 28-year-old Japanese star, with Haitian roots, has four major titles to her name (two US Opens and two Australian Opens). She’s been ranked world No. 1 and built a massive off-court presence through fashion, activism, and business.

Yet her clay-court results at Roland Garros have been modest so far, with a career-best third round. This year, she’s working with coach Tomasz Wiktorowski to change that narrative and go deeper on the red dirt. Her recent form in Madrid and Rome showed flashes of her powerful game, even in losses to top players like Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek.

Osaka has never shied away from using her platform. From wearing masks with names of Black victims during the 2020 US Open to speaking on mental health and social issues, she understands the responsibility that comes with visibility. Praising Monfils fits perfectly into that ethos, celebrating those who came before and made space for others.

Also Read: Aryna Sabalenka Shares Strong Stance for Lower-Ranked Battle Amid Roland Garros Prize Money Feud