Elina Svitolina and Gael Monfils Announce Separation

Ukrainian tennis player Elina Svitolina has announced the end of her marriage to French player Gael Monfils, citing the ongoing conflict in her homeland as a significant factor in her mental health struggles.

In an emotional statement shared on Instagram, Svitolina, 32, revealed that the war in Ukraine has deeply affected her, leading to sleepless nights and self-doubt. She expressed a need to rediscover her identity independently, stating that she has been "slowly losing myself."

"This is the most difficult thing I have ever had to share," Svitolina wrote. "Everyone knows how much Ukraine means to me. What I have rarely spoken about is what the war has done to me inside. Gael saw all of it. He never let go of my hand. We fought through this together for a long time, with everything we had. But some battles happen deep inside you, and no amount of love from someone else can win them for you."

She emphasized that the separation is not the fault of either party, describing their situation as a story that is "changing shape." Svitolina, who married Monfils in July 2021 and has a four-year-old daughter named Skai with him, affirmed that their child will remain their priority.

"Skai will always come first," she continued. "Our marriage is ending, but our family is not. We will always be her parents, side by side, at every step of her life."

Svitolina had previously cut short her 2025 season, citing psychological fatigue and stating she was "not in the right emotional space" to continue competing. She indicated a need to "heal and recharge."

The announcement may also explain Monfils' absence from the upcoming Paris Masters. The French player, 40, was previously expected to make his final career appearance at the event. Fans had been confused when he was listed as retired without explanation ahead of the tournament. Monfils had announced in October of the previous year his intention to retire at the end of the 2026 season.