Elina Svitolina says daughter remains priority after split from Monfils

Elina Svitolina prioritized a strong co-parenting relationship with Gael Monfils and the well-being of their daughter, Skai, as she adjusted to life after their split. The Ukrainian tennis player and French former world number six announced their separation last month but remain in regular contact. Their daughter, Skai, was born in October 2022.

Svitolina cited the pressures of Russia’s war in Ukraine as one of the contributing factors to their marriage breakdown. Speaking after her WTA Finals round-robin victory over Aryna Sabalenka, Svitolina emphasized that their top priority remains ensuring their daughter's happiness. Despite the tournament's intense scrutiny and negative social media comments, Svitolina finds it challenging to escape the media attention.

She sometimes disconnects from social media platforms like Instagram to cope. Svitolina expressed that she can remain engaged with the world around her on some days while being overwhelmed by the speculation surrounding her personal life on others. With years of public scrutiny, the 32-year-old said she has developed resilience but acknowledged that online abuse can be emotionally taxing.

Svitolina applauded the WTA's efforts to enhance player protection, especially through security measures and measures to combat online abuse. She will face Linda Noskova in the semifinals on Saturday to secure a spot in the $10 million WTA Finals final to be held in Indian Wells.