Monfils defends Svitolina after online backlash over separation

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 23 Oct, 23:02 · Archive

Gael Monfils has criticised online abuse directed at his wife Elina Svitolina following their separation announcement.

Elina Svitolina announced the end of her marriage to Gael Monfils in an emotional Instagram post earlier this week. She attributed the separation in part to the mental toll of Russia's ongoing war in her native Ukraine. The announcement sparked online hostility towards the world number 6 player.

Monfils, aged 40, responded on Instagram on Friday in defence of his wife, whom he married in 2021 and with whom he shares a four-year-old daughter, Skai. He described the criticism directed at Svitolina as "venomous" and "upsetting". Monfils wrote that although Svitolina "did not owe anyone an explanation", she "chose to speak vulnerably and truthfully" about her decision, and that many had deemed her explanation "wasn't perfect enough".

The separation also affected Monfils' retirement plans. He had originally intended to end his career at the Paris Masters next month, but his second-round defeat to Learner Tien at the US Open became his final match as a professional. Monfils stated he remained "forever grateful" to Svitolina for her support and love, and emphasised that although they were no longer a couple, they remained a family.

How it is being reported

• Gael Monfils speaks out over ‘venomous’ Elina Svitolina criticism after divorce announcementSvitolina announced the end of one of tennis’ most high-profile relationships in a long post on Instagram earlier this weekIndependent Sport · 23 Oct, 22:43
• Monfils condemns 'venomous' criticism of Svitolina after pair's separationGael Monfils has branded criticism of his wife Elina Svitolina as "venomous" and "upsetting" following the announcement of their separation.Sky Sports · 23 Oct, 21:58

In this story: Gael Monfils · Elina Svitolina · Ukraine · Russia · Paris Masters · US Open

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