In a heartfelt announcement, Ukrainian tennis star Elina Svitolina has confirmed the end of her marriage to French tennis player Gaël Monfils. The couple, who tied the knot in July 2021, shared the news on social media on Monday, October 18, accompanied by a poignant black-and-white photograph of themselves.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/elina-gael-458c56f8ccf940a1926577baa226ee78.jpg)
Svitolina, 32, took to Instagram to express the challenges that led to their separation, stating, “This is the most difficult thing I have ever had to share.” In her lengthy message, she reflected on the impact of the ongoing war in Ukraine, revealing that it has taken a heavy toll on her emotional well-being. “What I have rarely spoken about is what the war has done to me inside,” she wrote, elaborating on the sleepless nights and internal struggles she faced in recent months.
The athlete noted that while Monfils, 40, supported her throughout these trying times, there are battles that individuals must confront alone. “Some battles happen deep inside you, and no amount of love from someone else can win them for you,” she remarked, highlighting the complexities of their relationship.
Recognising the need for self-discovery, Svitolina acknowledged that it’s a journey she felt unable to pursue while remaining in the marriage. “With time, I came to understand that I need to find my way back to myself and that I cannot do that within our marriage,” she explained. She described the realisation as one of her hardest truths, but emphasised Monfils’ respect and understanding throughout their discussions.
The couple welcomed their beloved daughter, Skai, on October 15, 2022, a moment that Svitolina had once celebrated as an “unforgettable” occasion. In her statement, she reassured followers that despite their marital split, their commitment to co-parenting remains steadfast. “Skai will always come first,” she affirmed. “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 urged for understanding and compassion during this difficult time, requesting privacy as they both navigate their new circumstances. “Please know that there is no one to blame here,” she stated, “There are only two people who loved each other deeply and a story that is changing shape.”
The pair first crossed paths in 2018 and became engaged before their marriage in 2021. During their time together, they gained recognition as a formidable presence within the tennis community, both achieving notable successes on the court. In 2026, they made history as one of the few married couples to win singles titles at the same tournament in consecutive years, with Svitolina claiming the ASB Classic women’s title in Auckland, matching Monfils’ triumph in the men’s event the previous year.
As their professional careers continue to unfold, the couple also supported one another in mixed doubles competitions, showcasing a deep familial bond despite their separation. Their recent appearances at the 2026 US Open marked Monfils’ final tournament before his anticipated retirement at the end of the year, emphasising the bittersweet nature of their partnership both on and off the court.
In her closing remarks, Svitolina expressed gratitude for the kindness and support they have received from fans and friends alike, reiterating her wishes for space and healing as they embark on this new chapter in their lives. The separation signifies a significant shift for both athletes, who have been celebrated not only for their sportsmanship but also for their love story in the world of tennis.