Gael Monfils with the ASB Classic Trophy after his win in January. Photo: www.photosport.nz
ASB Classic champion Gaël Monfils will defend his title in January.
The Frenchman, a crowd favourite in Auckland, is the first player announced for the 2026 tournament.
Monfils, who turns 39 next month, became the oldest player to win on the ATP Tour with his victory over Belgian Zizou Bergs in the Auckland final at the start of the year. He was also the oldest to win a tour-level title since Ken Rosewall won the Hong Kong Trophy as a 43-year-old in 1977.
"I love the game. I love to compete. I am very passionate and I love waking up and getting ready for matches so I can be the best that I can. I feel that is what keeps me going," Monfils said after confirming his return to Auckland.
"This title means a lot to me. It was definitely a week I will not forget. I love the tournament."
The Frenchman is in his 21st season as a professional and has never finished a season outside the top 100 players since he joined the ATP Tour in 2004. He has won 13 ATP titles.
Tournament director Nicolas Lamperin said it was thrilling that Monfils was returning.
"It is good to have a champion back. However at nearly 39, we should not take for granted that he will play forever, and we should enjoy watching him while we can.
"He is a wonderful person and still perhaps the most entertaining player in the world.
"We could not have hoped for a better or bigger name to announce as we go on sale.
"I am in negotiations with a range of players for both tournaments, and we expect to confirm several others in the coming weeks."
Lamperin said the increased court size and new replacement grandstand at the Stanley St venue would add value to the centre-court experience.
Tickets sales for the women's and men's tournaments in Auckland went on sale on Tuesday.
