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.
