In brief
Ukrainian tennis star Elina Svitolina announced the end of her marriage with French former pro Gaël Monfils, saying the war’s emotional toll made it impossible to stay together. The couple, who married in 2021 and have a four‑year‑old daughter, faced sleepless nights and doubts caused by the ongoing invasion. Svitolina thanked Monfils for his grace and strength, noting that no amount of love can win internal battles. While Svitolina vowed to prioritize her family, Monfils prepares for retirement and a new career in finance. The announcement reminds us that war’s impact extends beyond borders and borders of sport, affecting personal resilience and community bonds.
Ukrainian tennis star Elina Svitolina has announced that she is ending her marriage with French former tennis superstar Gaël Monfils, saying the war in her homeland has taken a toll on her emotionally, making her unable to continue the relationship.
The 32‑year‑old, holding the world No. 6 ranking, posted a heartfelt message on Instagram explaining how the conflict and “what the war has done to me inside” has left her feeling lost and in need of a new path. ”This is the most difficult thing I have ever had to share,” she wrote, adding that she “needs to find my way back to myself” outside of marriage.
Svitolina praised Monfils for listening and respecting her needs with a calm and strong grace that she will never forget. She described the internal struggle as “some battles that happen deep inside you” that even love cannot win for you.
She shared that her daughter, four‑year‑old Skai, will continue to be the priority, emphasising that the family unit remains, even as the marriage ends.
Monfils, 40, a former world No. 6, is preparing to retire from professional tennis after the Paris Masters and has moved on to a career in finance with a Swiss wealth‑management firm. The two‑time Grand Slam semi‑finalist’s retirement was confirmed last week when he was listed on the International Tennis Integrity Authority’s roster of retired players.
The split underscores how global crises ripple across personal, social, and professional realms – reminding us that war’s damage transcends borders and that even athletes on the world stage are not immune to its emotional toll.
