Ukrainian tennis player Elina Svitolina has announced the end of her marriage to French tennis player Gaël Monfils. She also spoke openly about the emotional difficulties she has experienced because of the war.
Elina Svitolina shared the news on Instagram.
“This is the most difficult thing I have ever had to share,” the tennis player wrote.
Svitolina said the war in Ukraine had negatively affected her emotional well-being. Last year, she took a break from competition, citing psychological difficulties. According to Svitolina, she struggled with sleepless nights, doubts and a feeling that she was losing herself.
During that period, her husband Gaël Monfils supported her. The couple spent a long time trying to overcome their difficulties, but Svitolina eventually concluded that she needed to end their marriage to recover emotionally. She said Monfils understood and respected her decision.
“Some battles happen deep inside you, and no amount of love from another person can win them for you,” Svitolina wrote.
The tennis player said she and Monfils had spent many years together and were raising their daughter, Skai. Despite their separation, both intend to remain involved in raising her.
“Skai will always come first. Our marriage is ending, but our family is not. We will always be her parents, side by side, at every stage of her life,” Svitolina said.
She also stressed that she did not blame either of them for the divorce and asked people to respect their decision.
