'Venomous at worst': Gael Monfils breaks silence on separation from Elina Svitolina

Gael Monfils has spoken publicly about his separation from Elina Svitolina, defending the Ukrainian tennis star after she faced heavy criticism over the end of their five-year marriage.The French player expressed his disappointment with the negative reactions and urged fans to respect their private lives instead of blaming Svitolina for his early retirement.In an emotional Instagram statement shared Friday, Monfils thanked Svitolina for supporting him throughout his career and criticized the harsh comments directed at her."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," Monfils wrote.The statement came four days after Svitolina announced their separation, explaining that the emotional strain of Russia's war in Ukraine and other personal challenges had affected her deeply.Retirement reports fuel criticismAccording to French sports newspaper L'Équipe, Svitolina reportedly told Monfils during a phone call in late September that she wanted to end their marriage. Monfils was in Dubai with their daughter, Skai, while Svitolina was competing in Beijing.Reports suggested that the conversation deeply affected Monfils, who later withdrew from his remaining tournaments. He had planned to end his 22-year professional career at the Paris Masters in November, but instead announced his retirement, effective October 5.His final professional singles match was his second-round defeat to Learner Tien at the US Open. Monfils finished his career with 13 ATP titles and reached two Grand Slam semifinals.As details of his retirement emerged, some fans blamed Svitolina for disrupting his planned farewell, while others questioned her reasons for ending the marriage. Several argued that she should have waited until after the Paris Masters to make the decision.Monfils stresses family comes firstThe backlash also drew criticism from former Australian player and coach Rennae Stubbs, who reminded fans that outsiders cannot fully understand what happens within a marriage.Monfils shared a similar view, expressing his frustration with the treatment of his estranged wife. "While I am deeply grateful that the public feels so invested in my happiness, I have found the lack of grace and kindness shown towards Elina upsetting," he wrote.Despite their separation, Monfils made it clear that he continues to respect and care for Svitolina. The couple married in July 2021 and welcomed their daughter in October 2022."Elina and I may no longer be a couple, but we are still a family," he wrote, emphasizing that their daughter remains their priority.He also acknowledged the personal struggles both are facing, adding, "Elina has her battles to fight just as I have mine."Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.