On Thursday night, September 3, 2026, ESPN made a controversial choice during its primetime coverage of the US Open, opting not to broadcast the conclusion of the match between Gael Monfils and Learner Tien. This decision came after Coco Gauff's victory over Paula Badosa and just before Alexander Zverev's match against Quentin Hays.
Instead of showing the final moments of Monfils' match, which marked his last appearance at the US Open, the network aired a commentary segment featuring Malika Andrews and Sam Querrey. This choice sparked frustration among viewers who were eager to witness the emotional farewell of Monfils, a beloved figure in tennis.
Gael Monfils, who recently celebrated his 40th birthday, lost to Learner Tien in straight sets, concluding a remarkable career at the US Open that spanned over two decades, beginning in his junior years. Monfils announced his retirement from professional tennis at the end of the year, transitioning to a role in commentary. His departure from the sport is significant, as he has been a fan favorite known for his charismatic playing style and engaging personality.
Fans were not only deprived of witnessing Tien's achievement of advancing to the third round for the first time in his career but also missed Monfils’ heartfelt tribute to the crowd. In his farewell, Monfils expressed gratitude for the support he received throughout his career, ranking the US Open crowd as second only to the French Open audience in terms of warmth and enthusiasm.
The match took place in New York, where Monfils embraced Tien after the conclusion, highlighting the sportsmanship and respect between the two players. This moment was particularly poignant, as it encapsulated the spirit of tennis and the relationships formed on and off the court.
ESPN's coverage of the tournament had been generally well-received until this incident. While commentators like Andy Roddick have been praised for their insightful analysis without overshadowing the action, there have been instances of miscommunication and inaccuracies. For example, Coco Vandeweghe mistakenly referred to Filipina player Alexandra Eala as a teenager, despite Eala turning 21 earlier this year.
As ESPN continues to navigate its coverage of the US Open, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of balancing commentary with live action, especially during significant moments in sports. The backlash from fans highlights the need for networks to remain attentive to the emotional narratives that unfold during major tournaments, particularly when beloved athletes like Monfils are involved.
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