Elina Svitolina and Gaël Monfils Divorce: Tennis Star Shares Emotional Breakup Statement
Tennis star Elina Svitolina has announced her separation and impending divorce from her husband and fellow tennis pro, Gaël Monfils.
In a personal statement shared on social media, the former World No. 3 revealed that the emotional scars of the war in Ukraine ultimately strained their marriage beyond repair.
The couple, who married in July 2021 and welcomed their daughter, Skai, in October 2022, have long been one of tennis’s most beloved pairings. However, Svitolina opened up about the invisible battles that led to the end of their relationship.
Svitolina, a fierce advocate for her home country of Ukraine, confessed that the emotional weight of the ongoing conflict took a severe toll on her mental health, leading to her previous hiatus from the court.
“Everyone knows how much Ukraine means to me. What I have rarely spoken about is what the war has done to me inside,” Svitolina wrote. “What you didn’t see were the sleepless nights, the doubts, and the feeling of slowly losing myself.”
She praised Monfils for his unwavering support during her darkest moments, noting that he “never let go of my hand.”
Ultimately, however, Svitolina realized she needed space outside of her marriage to heal. “Some battles happen deep inside you, and no amount of love from someone else can win them for you,” she stated.
Despite the end of their marriage, Svitolina emphasized that their commitment to their young daughter remains unchanged.
She affirmed that Skai will always come first, explaining that while their marriage is ending, their family is not.
The Ukrainian star noted that Monfils accepted the decision with a strength and grace she will never forget, explicitly asking the public to understand that there is no animosity or blame between them, but rather a story that is simply changing shape.
She pleaded for privacy and kindness from fans and the media as they navigate this transition.
Monfils has not yet issued a separate public statement regarding the breakup.
A passionate sports journalist with a sharp eye for the stories behind the scores, bringing energy, insight, and accuracy to every report. Experienced in covering games, athletes, and sporting events while capturing the moments that keep fans engaged. Dedicated to delivering compelling sports content across digital and traditional platforms.
