By Richard Pagliaro | @Tennis_Now | Wednesday, April 2, 2025
Photo credit: Elina Svitolina Instagram
Elina Svitolina: More Than Just a Partner to Gael Monfils
Her Role: A Lifeline in His Career
Filipina Fighter: Eala Stuns Keys in Miami
On a recent episode of his YouTube talk show, Monfils was questioned by his former Davis Cup teammate Gilles Simon, asking, “Would you still be pursuing tennis if you hadn’t crossed paths with Elina Svitolina?”
The former world No. 6 revealed that during the dreary days of the COVID-19 pandemic, he grappled with thoughts of exiting the sport altogether as he battled with depression while competing in empty arenas.
Monfils credited his wife as a critical force in reigniting his passion. “I truly don’t think I would still be in the game,” he stated during his chat with Simon. “Elina was my anchor during those tough post-COVID days. Even though I was still in the Top 10, I felt disconnected and uninspired with the empty stadiums.”
“I started voicing to her my thoughts about quitting. I felt frustrated and unable to regain my form.”
In October 2022, the couple welcomed their daughter, Skai Monfils.
Throughout Svitolina’s pregnancy, Monfils faced challenges in maintaining wellness while dealing with persistent knee and foot injuries, compounded by a sense of isolation from both the sport and fans during COVID. All of this led him to contemplate retirement.
Currently, at 38 years old, Monfils is enjoying a revival in his athletic career.
Last week, the Frenchman triumphed against Jaume Munar with a score of 7-5, 5-7, 7-6(1), achieving the distinction of being the oldest player ever to reach the round of 16 in Miami.
NO WORDS NEEDED 🫡 @Gael_Monfils #MiamiOpen pic.twitter.com/xwpeOAColK
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) March 24, 2025
This incredible run in Miami followed shortly after Monfils made history in Auckland by becoming the oldest player to win an ATP title.
Reflecting on his journey, Monfils attributed his success to Svitolina, saying, “She saved me.” Her support rekindled his enthusiasm for tennis.
“Without Elina, I likely wouldn’t have continued in the sport. Thanks to her, I achieved rankings of 14th in the world, secured the title in Adelaide, advanced to the quarterfinals in the Australian Open, and then faced another injury, sidelining me for seven months.”
Monfils recalled a pivotal moment when he confided in his pregnant wife, “I think it’s over for me.” Her response was a turning point in his life and career.
“I said to Elina: ‘It’s over.’ And at the same time, she was pregnant,” Monfils added. “I had significant family issues and injuries, questioning if my journey was coming to a halt. It felt disheartening to quit due to an injury.”
“Then, Elina found the right words, giving me a new purpose, focusing on qualifying for the Olympic Games, even when I was ranked 400th.”
“My wife reignited that fire within me. She played a crucial role in why I continue to compete in tennis, and I’m so grateful to her!”
