Monfils defends Svitolina after ‘venomous’ criticism
Gaël Monfils has defended Elina Svitolina after she faced harsh criticism for explaining that the emotional toll of the war in Ukraine contributed to their decision to end their marriage. He said her account was honest and vulnerable, and asked people to remember that a social media post cannot capture everything that happens in a relationship.
Monfils and Svitolina married in 2021 and have a four-year-old daughter, Skai. He said they remain a family and will continue to support and care for one another. Monfils, a former world number six with 13 ATP Tour titles, is listed as retired and is preparing for a career in finance, though he is expected to play at a Geneva exhibition in December.
In short
- Monfils called criticism of Svitolina “venomous”.
- Svitolina cited the emotional toll of the war in Ukraine.
- The former couple say they remain a family and co-parent their daughter.
Explained simply
Gaël Monfils and Elina Svitolina are professional tennis players who married in 2021 and have a daughter, Skai. Monfils reached number six in the world rankings and won 13 ATP Tour titles; Svitolina is from Ukraine, where Russia’s full-scale invasion has caused a prolonged war.
The war has affected Ukrainians’ lives, including those living and working abroad. Monfils and Svitolina have said they will continue to care for their daughter and support one another, even as their relationship changes.