Key Takeaways
- World No. 6 Elina Svitolina has withdrawn from the WTA 500 Toray Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo following the announcement of her divorce from Gael Monfils.
- The Ukrainian explained that she made the decision after reaching a point where she “didn’t want to keep living a life where I wasn’t truly happy.”
- Svitolina is anticipated to make her competitive return at the WTA Finals in Indian Wells, scheduled to begin on November 8.
Abrupt withdrawals spark concerns over sudden breakup
World No. 6 Elina Svitolina has officially withdrawn from the Toray Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo, marking another unexpected disruption to her late-season calendar. The decision follows the shocking announcement earlier this week that her 5-year marriage to French tennis star Gael Monfils has come to an end.
The joint unraveling of both players’ competition plans has fueled widespread speculation across the tennis community. Monfils had previously removed himself from the active tour roster, abruptly bypassing planned farewell appearances at events in Lyon and the Paris Masters to conclude his career away from the spotlight.
Reflections on a painful separation
Svitolina initially pointed to the prolonged emotional strain caused by the conflict in Ukraine as a major factor behind the shift in her personal life. However, she later clarified that multiple issues led to the decision.
As public rumors grew, Svitolina admitted she reached a stage where she “didn’t want to keep living a life where I wasn’t truly happy.”
Despite the split, the Ukrainian star maintained immense praise for Monfils and credited him for his continued understanding and backing throughout their partnership.
Looking ahead to the season finale
The abrupt split stands in stark contrast to previous expectations surrounding Monfils’ final tour lap, where the couple had anticipated sharing his farewell journey together alongside their 4-year-old daughter, Skai.
Following her withdrawal from the WTA 500 event in Japan, Svitolina is slated to return to action at the season-ending WTA Finals, which begin on November 8 in Indian Wells. The tournament marks her first qualification for the prestigious championship since 2019.
Elina Svitolina in 2026
Now the world no.6, the Ukrainian played her last match on the 16th of October when she was overcome by world no.49 Sonay Kartal 6-2 2-6 6-4 in the quarter in Wuhan (draw).
Presently, during this year Elina owns an overall 50-17 record. Elina clinched 2 titles in 2026 in Auckland and Rome.
