Elina Svitolina Announces Separation from Gael Monfils After Five Years of Marriage

Posted : 19 October 2026

Ukrainian tennis star Elina Svitolina has announced the end of her marriage to French player Gael Monfils after five years together. The world No. 6 shared the news on Monday, October 19, explaining that she needed to rediscover herself and could no longer do so within the marriage.

In an emotional social media statement, the 32-year-old described the decision as one of the most difficult moments of her life. She explained that the ongoing war in Ukraine had taken a significant emotional toll on her, bringing sleepless nights, uncertainty and a growing sense of losing her identity.

Svitolina acknowledged that Monfils had supported her through these difficult experiences, but said she had eventually realised that some personal struggles could not be resolved through another person's love alone. She expressed gratitude for his understanding and the respect he had shown towards her decision.

The former world No. 3 spoke about the impact of Russia's invasion of Ukraine on her personal life, revealing that the emotional burden had affected her well-being beyond the tennis court.

She previously took a break from competition when she felt she was not in the right emotional state to continue playing. In her latest statement, she offered further insight into the difficulties she had experienced privately, explaining that the process of finding herself again had become essential.

Despite the separation, Svitolina made clear that she holds Monfils in high regard. She emphasised that there was no one to blame for the marriage ending and described their relationship as one built on deep love and shared experiences.

Svitolina and Monfils married in July 2021 and have a four-year-old daughter, Skai. The Ukrainian star stressed that their daughter's well-being would remain their priority as they navigate the changes in their family life.

She reassured supporters that although their marriage was ending, their responsibilities as parents would continue. Both intend to remain present in their daughter's life and raise her together.

The announcement concluded with a request for privacy and understanding as the family adjusts to the separation.

The announcement comes shortly after Monfils, 40, ended his professional tennis career earlier than originally anticipated. The former world No. 6 had been expected to make farewell appearances at the ATP 250 tournament in Lyon and the Paris Masters, but those plans will no longer go ahead.

Monfils had received a wildcard for the Lyon tournament, but organisers confirmed his withdrawal for personal reasons. His retirement was subsequently reflected in the International Tennis Integrity Agency's records, with his professional career listed as ending on October 5.

The couple's separation announcement follows a significant period of change for both players. While Monfils has brought his playing career to a close, Svitolina continues to compete at the highest level of women's tennis.

Svitolina, a four-time Grand Slam semifinalist, remains one of Ukraine's leading sporting figures. Her announcement offers a rare glimpse into the personal challenges she has faced while balancing elite competition with the emotional impact of the war in her homeland.

Although the end of the marriage marks a major change for the couple, Svitolina's message emphasised respect, gratitude and their shared commitment to their daughter. Both players now face a new chapter in their personal lives following years of competing on the international tennis circuit.

Elina Svitolina Announces Separation from Gael Monfils After Five Years of Marriage

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