Elina Svitolina still has a ‘great relationship’ with Gael Monfils and they spoke before WTA Finals

Elina Svitolina has endured a tumultuous end to the season, largely overshadowed by her split with Gael Monfils.

For years, these two had been seen as one of tennis’ most iconic power couples, and so news of their separation came as a great shock.

The aftermath only added to this feeling of sadness and discontent, as the Frenchman’s retirement from the sport, which was always planned at the end of this year, got fast-tracked. He had been due to play in Lyon and Paris, but instead had to settle for just a farewell ceremony in the capital.

Monfils has already been confirmed as France’s new Davis Cup captain, suggesting that his relationship with tennis is far from over.

Meanwhile, Elina Svitolina has been shining at the WTA Finals, having set up a semi-final showdown with Linda Noskova later today.

Elina Svitolina shares what her relationship with Gael Monfils is currently like

Speaking after her incredible win over Aryna Sabalenka just last night, which secured her qualification from the group stages, it was questioned whether this event had come at the perfect time to provide an escape from her off-court struggles.

Chatting with Christian’s Court, Svitolina pushed back that suggestion, instead suggesting: “I wouldn’t say so, because, still lots of things going on, social media, and lots of pressure, and, I think lots of talking, negative talking on social media towards me.

“So, I wouldn’t say it’s an escape, in a way, because in this situation, you just want to be away from the media and all the social media, try to deal with it the best way I can.”

The Ukrainian then revealed she remains in contact with Gael Monfils, and that their relationship is still strong.

Svitolina added: “I have great people around me. And most importantly, I think, you know, just being honest with you guys is we have a great relationship with Gael. Even, like, ten minutes before the match, I had to talk with him, and we’re on good terms, and the most important [thing] for us is just to have our daughter being happy, and yeah, it’s the most important period for us.”

Ever since her announcement of their split on social media, she has been on the receiving end of some vile abuse from those without proper knowledge or insight into her situation.

Asked whether her online activity has shifted because of this backlash, Svitolina added: “Every day is different.

“Sometimes when I feel like, overloaded, I try just to switch off, you know, all this, Instagram and other apps that is kind of negative in a way and just focus on myself and my family.

“And then some days, of course, I’m okay. I’m used to it after, you know, with the world, so I think there’s lots of talking, lots of speculation, and lots of things thrown at me, but, yeah, I feel that some days are better, some days are bad, but I’m used to it.

“You know, I have, I think, tough skin for this over the years with everything that I’ve been dealing with.”

Monfils still enjoyed a retirement tribute at the Paris Masters, able to say goodbye in front of his home crowd.

It appears there is no bad blood between these two, thankfully, which should hopefully silence some of the hatred aimed at Svitolina for seemingly ending his career early. This was his decision, and one he seems comfortable with.

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Esta notícia foi originalmente publicada em: Fonte original