[REVISION HISTORY]

Impact of war and personal changes on Elina Svitolina

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2026-10-24 00:17 UTC → 2026-10-24 22:35 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Following a historic run to the Billie Jean King Cup final in Shenzhen, China, where she lost to the Czech Republic, Ukrainian tennis player Elina Svitolina spoke about the mental burden caused by the ongoing war in Ukraine. She noted that the pressure from the conflict and social media makes professional competition extremely difficult, despite nearly five years passing since the conflict began. Svitolina emphasized that representing her country provides immense honor and serves as motivation to use her platform for relief and unity. She also continues humanitarian efforts through the Elina Svitolina Foundation, focusing on youth tennis and mental health programs for athletes affected by the war. Svitolina later announced her separation from Gaël Monfils, stating the decision was driven by a need to rediscover herself following the emotional toll of the war. She described experiencing sleepless nights and a sense of losing herself due to the conflict in her homeland. Svitolina, who informed Monfils of the decision via telephone while competing in China, clarified that while Monfils provided immense support, she realized she could not find her personal path while remaining in the marriage. In a formal announcement, Svitolina described the situation as two people who loved each other deeply whose story is ‘simply changing shape.’ The couple, who married in 2021, share a four-year-old daughter, Skai, and confirmed they will continue to co-parent side by side. This follows Monfils’ abrupt retirement from professional tennis at age 40. Monfils has since defended Svitolina against ‘venomous’ online criticism, stating she chose to be vulnerable and honest despite not owing the public an explanation. He described the separation as a ‘minefield of messy, complicated feelings’ and emphasized that despite the end of their marriage, they remain a family.

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