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Gilles Simon Shanghai 2017
ATP Tennis Players, Tennis News

‘I have to take a break to preserve myself mentally,’ says Gilles Simon


French star Gilles Simon has announced he will be taking an indefinite break from the ATP tour out of concern for his mental health.

The 36-year-old, who reached a career-high singles ranking of 6 in 2009, won the last of his 14 titles on the men’s tour in 2018 and now finds himself 68th in the rankings.

Gilles Simon wrote on twitter: “With my heart not being there to travel and play in these conditions, I unfortunately have to take a break in order to preserve myself mentally,”

“Hopefully my morale picks up as soon as possible.”

The former Australian Open and Wimbledon quarter-finalist crashed out in the first round in Melbourne against Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-1 6-2 6-1 before losing to Denis Novak in the opener in Montpellier.

The Frenchman’s announcement comes after the ATP Tour implemented a 24/7 mental health support line for players last year after setting up a partnership with Sporting Chance, the charity founded by former Arsenal defender Tony Adams.


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Tim Farthing, Tennishead Editorial Director & Owner, has been a huge tennis fan his whole life. He's a tennis journalist and entrepreneur as well as playing tennis to a national standard. He also helps manage his local club and volunteers for his local tennis organisation. He's a specialist in content about the administration of professional tennis and tennis coaching for all levels.