Gael Monfils and Elina Svitolina, two of the most talented tennis players in the world, have not only built careers based on their incredible athleticism but have also created a powerful partnership both on and off the court. From their initial meeting to their journey as a married couple with a young child, their relationship has been an inspiring story of love, resilience, and determination. Now, as they both compete in the 2024 and 2025 tennis seasons, their bond continues to fuel their professional and personal lives.
Meeting in Paris: A Serendipitous Encounter
While Gael Monfils and Elina Svitolina had been crossing paths at tennis tournaments for years, their personal connection didn’t blossom until 2018. It all started after Svitolina’s victory at the WTA Finals in Singapore. The two had known each other but had very little interaction. However, Monfils reached out to her on Instagram after seeing a celebratory post from Svitolina, inviting her to join him and friends for drinks in Paris. This simple gesture marked the beginning of a new chapter for both. As Svitolina recalls, it was a moment where they couldn’t part after their meeting.
Although both Monfils and Svitolina had been in long-term relationships before, their chemistry was undeniable. Their connection quickly deepened, and they soon found themselves inseparable. Their bond, built on mutual respect and understanding, laid the foundation for their future together.
A Magical Engagement in the Mountains
After several years of dating, Monfils proposed to Svitolina in an unforgettable setting. On April 3, 2021, the couple announced their engagement on Instagram, sharing a beautiful moment in the snow-covered mountains, with Svitolina showcasing her dazzling three-stone emerald-cut engagement ring. The couple’s shared love for adventure, combined with the majestic backdrop, made the moment even more special. Their engagement was a testament to their strong relationship, and their shared joy made it clear they were ready for the next step in their journey together.
A Unique Wedding Ceremony
Gael Monfils and Elina Svitolina’s wedding in July 2021 was a statement of their individuality. The couple tied the knot on July 16, 2021, in a private ceremony, with both sporting custom wedding attire designed by the late Virgil Abloh of Off-White. Svitolina’s untraditional wedding outfit included a white pantsuit and a sheer purple skirt that cascaded around her waist. Monfils, ever the stylish figure, wore an equally tailored look that complemented his bride. The pair’s wedding was a perfect reflection of their modern love story, making headlines not only for its fashion-forward choices but also for its meaningful representation of their personalities.
Expanding Their Family
On October 15, 2022, the couple welcomed their first child, a daughter named Skaï. Monfils shared the moment with fans on social media, expressing his gratitude for his wife’s strength during the birth. He called it the “most amazing night of my life,” marveling at Svitolina’s bravery and resilience. Their daughter, though occasionally featured in photos, has her face kept hidden for privacy. Becoming parents has added a new layer of joy to their relationship, and both athletes seem more committed than ever to balancing their professional careers with family life.
Monfils praised his wife for her strength not only as a mother but also in her ability to return to professional tennis after the birth of Skaï. At a press conference in 2024, he shared his admiration for her mental and physical fortitude, stating, “She’s a great mother first. That’s first. People want to put tennis first, but life is beyond our sport.” For Monfils, seeing Svitolina juggle motherhood with the demands of professional sports has been a source of amazement. Her resilience, particularly in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine, has only increased his admiration for her.
Resilience Amidst Adversity
Both Monfils and Svitolina have faced challenges in their careers, but Svitolina’s perseverance amid the ongoing conflict in her home country of Ukraine has been a particularly poignant example of resilience. Despite the hardship of the war, Svitolina continued to compete at the highest level, even representing Ukraine at the 2024 Paris Olympics. In a statement on Facebook, she shared the pride she felt in competing alongside 140 other Ukrainian athletes during such difficult times. Monfils, ever supportive, has consistently praised her for handling the situation with grace and strength.
Tennis Rivalries and Joint Social Media Presence
Though the couple enjoys a healthy rivalry on the tennis courts, they also support each other’s careers. In 2024, Monfils and Svitolina both participated in the Paris Olympics, which held special meaning for them as it was the city where they first met. After Monfils’ shocking victory over Taylor Fritz in the third round of the 2025 Australian Open, he shared an adorable message to his wife, expressing confidence in her upcoming match against the fourth seed, Jasmine Paolini. Monfils, 38 years old, continues to play some of the best tennis of his career. His unexpected victory against Fritz was a testament to his enduring skill and determination.
Both Monfils and Svitolina have strong social media followings. In addition to their personal accounts, they run a joint Instagram page called G.E.M.S. Life. Here, they share updates about their family life, parenting experiences, and behind-the-scenes moments from their tennis careers. Their combined following of over 100,000 fans provides a glimpse into the couple’s life beyond the sport.
Net Worth and Career Achievements
As of 2025, Gael Monfils has accumulated an estimated net worth of around $10 million, largely due to his successful tennis career and endorsements. Svitolina, on the other hand, has an estimated net worth of $20 million, with her achievements in tennis, including several Grand Slam victories, contributing to her financial success. Both athletes continue to compete at the highest level, with Monfils enjoying a resurgence in his career, and Svitolina steadily climbing the ranks after returning from maternity leave.
The Future of Monfils and Svitolina
As they continue to support one another both personally and professionally, the future looks bright for Gael Monfils and Elina Svitolina. Their relationship, grounded in mutual respect and love, has not only made them a beloved couple among tennis fans but also role models for athletes balancing career and family. The couple’s shared moments on the tennis court and in their private lives remind fans that even in the world of elite sports, love and resilience prevail.