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Svitolina announced the separation from her husband in a post on Instagram. The Ukrainian tennis player cited the emotional effects of Russia’s war in her homeland as a key factor in her need to rediscover herself. She wrote, “This is the most difficult thing I have ever had to share. Everyone knows how much Ukraine means to me. What I have rarely spoken about is what the war has done to me inside.” The 32-year-old described how the conflict had led to sleepless nights, doubts and a gradual loss of identity that she had not fully shared before.
The couple, who married in July 2021, share a daughter named Skai who was born in October 2022 according to Reuters. Svitolina made it clear that their child would remain the top priority. She wrote, “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 step of her life.” She requested kindness and privacy from the public as they go through this transition.
Svitolina is currently ranked world number six and has had a successful year that saw her claim two titles and reach the Australian Open semifinals, BBC News reported. The player took a break from the sport in 2025 due to emotional issues before making her return. Her strong performances have also secured her a spot at the WTA Finals in Indian Wells later this year. The Guardian noted that she has been deeply affected by the ongoing war that started in 2022.
Monfils had planned for 2026 to be his final year as a professional before his retirement was recorded on October 5 according to the Associated Press. The 40-year-old French player and Svitolina reached the mixed doubles semifinals at the U.S. Open in August. Their on-court collaboration had been a highlight in recent months. Reuters reported that Monfils respected Svitolina’s decision with grace.
In the announcement Svitolina said Monfils had seen her struggles and never let go of her hand as they fought through the difficulties together. “But some battles happen deep inside you, and no amount of love from someone else can win them for you,” she wrote. She added that it was the hardest thing she had ever had to tell the person she loves. The post concluded that there is no one to blame and that their story is simply changing shape.
