Despite not winning any big titles, Elina Svitolina‘s husband, Gael Monfils, has always been a household name in men’s tennis. His brand of tennis is perceived as entertaining, and he has also given a tough fight to many legends of the game. He has, however, been out of action for the majority of the previous two years.
With age, playing time always decreases. Monfils being 36 now might feel the same. He has gone through plenty of injuries and surgeries in recent years. While being away from the sport, his form has also been questionable and the fans might just be upset with his recent revelation.
Gael Monfils hints that the clock is ticking
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The injuries haven’t allowed Monfils to spend much time on the court. Last night at the Citi Open, he registered only his third win of the season against Bjorn Fratangelo. After a much-needed straight-set win, the Frenchman revealed something that might be heartbreaking for his fans.
In the post-match on-court interview, the 36-year-old said, “I feel Elina will play much longer than me. It might be 1 of my last tournaments in the States. Maybe next year. We don?t know. But soon.” Monfils suggested that he might not be playing tennis for long and the 2024 season could be his last. However, he also revealed that he would not be away from the game.
Monfils further added, “But I may come back to support Elina with the baby. So you?ll see me around.” Monfils’ wife, Elina Svitolina, on the other hand, is only 28. She still has many playing years ahead of her and it might seem like the right decision if Monfils has to hang up the racket and look after the baby.
Gael Monfils hints at playing his last year on tour:
“I feel Elina will play much longer than me. It might be 1 of my last tournaments in the states. Maybe next year. We don’t know. But soon. But I may come back to support Elina with the baby. So you’ll see me around” pic.twitter.com/ZCIYaopIql
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) August 1, 2023
In fact, Svitolina has been in fine form. She continues to notch up big wins and climb up the ranks.
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Elina Svitolina’s fine run of form
Players usually struggle to find form after returning from a hiatus. However, this wasn’t the case with Ukrainian tennis ace Svitolina. She took her time to adjust to the tour, but she soon started winning big matches. After a title in Strasbourg, she made it to the Roland Garros quarter-finals and Wimbledon semi-finals. Yesterday, in a rematch of her controversial Wimbledon round of 16 battle, she cruised part tennis veteran Victoria Azarenka in straight sets.
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Svitolina’s form looks great ahead of the upcoming US Open. Do you think she can make another deep run here? Let us know in the comments.
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