From rollercoaster to soap opera: Elena Rybakina's coaching woes leave her free-spirited playing style hanging

From the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine to touring with husband Gael Monfils and daughter Skai, the mix of perspective emanates both on the court and off.

ByJoel Drucker

Published Feb 01, 2025

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In contrast to the clouds hanging over Elena Rybakina, Elina Svitolina in recent years has emerged as a ray of sunshine. On the one hand, some of Svitolina’s recent resurgence has been the result of the global horror that’s been inflicted on her native Ukraine.

But she has also found increased joy with husband Gael Monfils and their daughter, Skai. The mix of perspective and love has helped Svitolina play with exceptional passion and freedom over the last two years.

Former world No. 3 wears her heart on her sleeve every time she takes the court.

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“As one of the top athletes of Ukraine, I feel like I should use my platforms,” she said in Melbourne, “I should use my voice at the maximum that I can to raise awareness, to raise funds for multiple different kind of directions of what our Ukrainian people are in need.”

Svitolina’s appreciation for the chance to earn a living playing a game surfaced yet again Down Under, a run to the quarters highlighted by a 2-6, 6-4, 6-0 win over fourth-seeded Jasmine Paolini. Despite losing to Keys, Svitolina fought well, only in the end losing that match, 6-4 in the third set.

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