‘Venomous at worst’: Monfils breaks silence on separation from Svitolina

Gael Monfils has publicly defended Elina Svitolina following intense criticism surrounding the end of their five-year marriage. In an emotional Instagram post, the French tennis star described the public backlash against Svitolina as unkind and venomous. Monfils urged fans to respect their privacy and insisted that supporters stop blaming her for his decision to retire early from professional tennis.

Svitolina announced their separation four days earlier, citing personal struggles and the emotional toll of the ongoing war in Ukraine. The couple married in July 2021 and share a young daughter, Skai. Monfils, who ended his 22-year tennis career effective October 5 rather than at his planned Paris Masters farewell, emphasized that both continue to prioritize their family.