Gael Monfils. Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

France's Gael Monfils out of French Open, will have heel surgery

By Zac Wassink | Last updated 5/16/22

France's Gael Monfils will be unable to play in his country's biggest tennis event of the year later this month.

Monfils confirmed via a statement shared on Twitter that he has withdrawn from the French Open that gets underway this coming Sunday because of a heel injury.

"I regret to inform you that I am forced to withdraw from Open Parc de Lyon and the French Open next week," the 35-year-old wrote. "I have been bothered by a calcaneal spur since Monte-Carlo at my right heel which prevents me from moving properly on court.

"I have decided to undergo a small procedure this week to treat the issue before returning to competitive play. I will keep you updated about my progress when I have more news."

It's unclear when Monfils could return to action.

Per The Associated Press (h/t ESPN), Monfils is France's highest-ranked player on the ATP Tour and began the week as the world No. 22.

Take care of yourself, Gaël! Hope to see you back on court soon
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) May 16, 2022

Monfils' best French Open run, to date, occurred in 2008 when he reached the semifinal round of the tournament. He has also played in the quarterfinals three times during his lengthy career.

In off-the-court matters, Monfils and wife Elina Svitolina shared good news on Sunday when they confirmed they're expecting their first child in October:

With a heart full of love and happiness, we are delighted to announce that we are expecting a baby girl in October ❤️ pic.twitter.com/LernKW9Seq
— Gael Monfils (@Gael_Monfils) May 15, 2022