Gael Monfils has defended his estranged wife Elina Svitolina against what he called 'venomous' criticism following their divorce announcement. In his first statement since the news broke, the French tennis star branded the backlash as 'unkind' and 'venomous', urging the public to show respect.
Svitolina announced the end of their marriage in a heartfelt statement on Monday, describing it as the 'most difficult thing' she has ever had to share. The couple, who reached the US Open mixed doubles semi-finals in August, were married for more than five years after starting their relationship in 2019. They share a daughter, Skai, born in 2022.
A Power Couple's Split
Svitolina and Monfils were widely regarded as a power couple in tennis, having both won singles titles at the same tournament in consecutive years. Svitolina claimed the 2026 ASB Classic women's singles title in Auckland, New Zealand, a year after Monfils won the men's crown.
Svitolina confirmed the split, revealing that mental health struggles arising from the war in Ukraine had impacted their relationship. Despite the end of their marriage, they will continue to co-parent their daughter.
Monfils' Defence
Since the announcement, Svitolina has faced a barrage of criticism from fans and the public, though others have shown support. Monfils has now come to her defence in an Instagram post, asking people to respect them both.
In the post, Monfils said: "Over the years, Elina and I have taken great joy in sharing our story and our family with you all. We have also always shared our struggles as individuals. For me, a series of injuries and self-doubt that challenged me in new ways. For Elina, the destruction and suffering that have torn her country apart."
He added: "Even though she did not owe anyone an explanation, Elina chose to speak vulnerably and truthfully about her reasons for this decision. She did so in the best way she knew how. Many decided that her explanation wasn’t perfect enough, and Elina has now faced a kind of criticism that I have found unkind at best, and venomous at worst."
A Plea for Grace
Monfils acknowledged the couple's ongoing bond, stating: "Elina and I may no longer be a couple, but we are still a family. Though my heart hurts, I am forever grateful to her for her support and love over the years. When I was ready to quit tennis, she gave me the encouragement I needed to continue. And she is the person behind some of my life’s greatest victories: our daughter, Skaï being the greatest of all."
He concluded with a request for understanding: "As we move through this new chapter, I would ask everyone to remember that we are all just human beings: not Gaël Monfils and Elina Svitolina, but Gaël and Elina. Imperfect, but trying our best."
