Key Takeaways
- Andy Roddick called on observers to respect the privacy of Elina Svitolina and Gael Monfils after their separation.
- Monfils confirmed his withdrawal from tournaments in Lyon and Paris due to the split, but he plans to take part in Stan Wawrinka’s Geneva event in December.
- Svitolina earned a spot in the WTA Finals after winning two titles this season and finishing sixth in the race.
Public reaction to high-profile separation draws criticism from former major champion
Former world number one Andy Roddick has called for privacy regarding the personal lives of Gael Monfils and Elina Svitolina following the announcement of their separation. Speaking on his Served show, the American expressed frustration that the former couple continues to face scrutiny from observers and online critics.
Roddick voiced his irritation over the ongoing public pressure, remarking that “it is ridiculous” that the two players must repeatedly manage public feedback while navigating a difficult life change. He urged spectators to give both adults the space to handle their personal matters privately.
Fallout from announcement impacts tour schedules
The separation became public knowledge after Svitolina posted a statement on social media. The news triggered strong online backlash, which intensified following suggestions that the development influenced Monfils’ choice to step away from certain tournament commitments early. The negativity prompted Monfils to defend Svitolina publicly against hostile commentary.
Addressing the situation during a Twitch stream, Monfils confirmed that the personal transition led him to skip both an ATP 250 tournament in Lyon and the Paris Masters. Nevertheless, the Frenchman is scheduled to feature in an exhibition contest honoring Stan Wawrinka in Geneva on December 19 at the Palexpo Arena. That event will showcase Monfils, Wawrinka, Roger Federer, and Andy Murray, featuring a single-set singles match alongside a doubles contest pitting Wawrinka and Federer against Murray and Monfils.
Svitolina targets strong showing at WTA Finals
Although Svitolina pulled out of several tournaments after announcing the split, she is still scheduled to compete at the WTA Finals, set to take place from November 7 to November 14. Her qualification came via a sixth-place finish in the season standings after capturing titles at the ASB Classic and the Italian Open.
The tournament marks Svitolina’s first participation in the year-end championships since finishing as the runner-up in 2019. The field for the event includes Aryna Sabalenka, Coco Gauff, Elena Rybakina, Jessica Pegula, Linda Noskova, Karolina Muchova, and Mirra Andreeva.
Elina Svitolina in 2026
Currently the world no.6, Elina played her last match on the 16th of October when she was defeated by world no.52 Sonay Kartal 6-2 2-6 6-4 in the quarter in Wuhan (draw).
At present, during this year Elina owns a compiled 50-17 match record. Svitolina clinched 2 titles in 2026 in Auckland and Rome.
Gael Monfils in 2026
Ranked no.254, the French player played his last match on the 3rd of September when he surrendered to world no.18 Learner Tien 6-3 6-4 6-3 in the 2nd round of the U.S. Open (draw).
Until now, during this year Monfils has managed to achieve a compiled 5-10 match record.
