In a shocking revelation, Elina Svitolina, wife of the professional tennis player Gaël Monfils, has confirmed that her husband will retire from professional tennis at the end of the 2026 season. The news has fallen as a ray in the tennis community, not only because moving
During a press conference, Svitolina expressed her anguish by announcing her husband’s decision: “It is a decision made with a heavy heart. Gaël has been dealing with something much bigger than parties and tournaments. This rare disease has been affecting her physical recovery and well -being for years, but what is even more shocking is the personal sacrifice she has done in silence.”
Although Monfils has not revealed the name of the rare disease that afflicts him, he explained that his physical health no longer allows him to maintain the rhythm of the long and demanding parties. Despite this, he emphasized that his retirement is not only linked to this health problem, but also to a deeper need: repair what he feels are “past errors.”
With a trembling voice, Monfils shared his pain: “I have lost too many important moments with my family, especially with Elina and our daughter. I want to take the time to be with them, to be a better father and husband. I no longer want to continue negotiating these valuable moments. Tennis has been my life, but my family has always been my whole.”
The reaction of the tennis community has been immediate and loaded with emotions. High profile players, such as Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal, have expressed their support for Monfils, highlighting not only their exceptional ability on the court, but also their character and strength outside it. Djokovic, upon learning of the news, commented: “Gaël has been an example of tenacity and passion. If this is your decision, I send all my respect and support. The most important thing is that I find peace and happiness.”
For his part, Nadal, who has shared countless battles with monfils in the circuit, said: “I understand that this is a personal and difficult decision. The most important thing is that health and well -being prioritize. Gaël will always be an essential part of the history of tennis.”
The news has also generated a debate on the demands of professional tennis and the pressure that athletes face, not only in terms of physical performance, but also in their personal life. In recent decades, many players have talked about the balance between professional and personal life, and mental and physical health in high performance sport.
As Monfils prepares for his farewell in 2026, tennis fans and the community in general express his gratitude for the years of emotion and dedication to sport. The last stage of his career will undoubtedly be a bittersweet moment, not only for him and his family, but for all who have followed his career and admired his style of play.
This announcement has made it clear that, although the achievements on the court are important, health, family and personal happiness are what really matters at the end of the day.
