Tennis: Elina Svitolina annonce divorcer de Gaël Monfils

Yesterday 23:30

Ukrainian tennis star Elina Svitolina has announced the end of her marriage to French player Gaël Monfils, bringing a deeply personal chapter of their relationship to a close after five years as a married couple. The announcement, shared on Instagram on Monday, made clear that although their marriage is ending, their commitment to raising their daughter together will remain.

Svitolina, 32, addressed the separation in an emotional statement, describing the decision as one of the most difficult messages she had ever had to share publicly. Her post included a photograph of the couple, whose relationship began in 2018 before they married in 2021.

The pair have a four-year-old daughter, Skaï. In her message, Svitolina stressed that their separation would not change their shared responsibilities as parents. She said they would continue to stand together for their daughter and support her throughout her life.

Svitolina Speaks About the Personal Toll of War

Beyond the announcement itself, the Ukrainian player offered insight into the emotional challenges she has faced in recent years. She referred to the profound psychological impact of the war in Ukraine, describing a period marked by sleepless nights, uncertainty and a gradual loss of her sense of self.

Monfils, she acknowledged, had witnessed those struggles and remained by her side throughout difficult moments. However, she explained that, over time, she came to believe she needed to rediscover herself outside the marriage.

Her statement presented the separation as a personal decision shaped by an extended period of reflection rather than a sudden break. While she did not disclose further details about the circumstances, her account highlighted the complexity of balancing personal well-being, family life and the demands of a professional sporting career.

Monfils Steps Away From Professional Tennis

The announcement comes as Monfils enters a new phase of his life following his departure from professional tennis. The 40-year-old Frenchman has been listed as retired by the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) since October 5.

His retirement has drawn attention because he had previously suggested that he might continue competing until the Paris Masters, scheduled for November 2–8, allowing him to bid farewell to French supporters in front of a home crowd.

Monfils had also received a wild-card invitation to compete at the ATP 250 tournament in Lyon, which begins on Monday. Organisers announced the previous Wednesday that he would not participate, citing personal reasons.

The decision to withdraw, combined with the confirmation of his retirement, has brought uncertainty over the final appearance of a player known for his athleticism, expressive style and ability to energise audiences throughout his career.

A Shared Future Focused on Parenthood

Although the end of their marriage marks a significant change for both athletes, Svitolina's message placed their daughter's well-being at the centre of the next chapter.

The couple had become one of tennis's most recognisable international pairings, bringing together two players whose careers unfolded on the global circuit. Their relationship also developed against the backdrop of Svitolina's continued professional commitments and the personal strain associated with the war in her home country.

Neither the separation nor Monfils's retirement erases their shared history. For Svitolina, the immediate priority appears to be rebuilding her personal balance while preserving a stable family environment for Skaï.

Her public statement offered no further details about the practical arrangements following the separation. It did, however, establish a clear message: their marriage is ending, but their role as parents will continue to connect them.