Elina Svitolina Chooses Mental Health Over Tennis Career Priorities
Elina Svitolina, a prominent figure in professional tennis, has recently made a significant decision prioritizing her mental health over her sports career. The Ukrainian tennis star is married to Gaël Monfils, a former top 10 player, and is a mother to a three-year-old daughter named Skaï. Ensuring family comes first, Svitolina has also recognized the critical importance of mental well-being in her life and career.
Prioritizing Mental Health in Tennis
In September, after Ukraine’s disappointing exit to Italy in the Billie Jean King Cup semifinals, Svitolina chose to end her 2025 season earlier than expected. She expressed her struggles openly, stating, “I haven’t been feeling like myself lately. I’m not in the right emotional space, and I don’t feel ready to play.”
This break came as Svitolina reflected on the true essence of competitive tennis. She acknowledged that the sport is not just about achievements, but about maintaining the mental strength necessary to compete at the highest levels. “Right now, I’m simply not at the level mentally or emotionally to do that,” she clarified.
A Fresh Start in Auckland
Following her hiatus, Svitolina returned to the WTA Tour in Auckland earlier this month. Her comeback was marked by a stunning victory in the WTA event, occurring just one week before the Australian Open. Now ranked 12th in the world, the 31-year-old has navigated her first two rounds smoothly with straight-sets victories.
- Victory against Linda Klimovičová: 7-5, 6-1
- Focus on mental health over results emphasized
Reflection and Future Matches
At a recent post-match media conference, Svitolina emphasized the importance of her decision to step back from the sport last year. “Of course, I was sad that I didn’t give myself a chance to maybe qualify for the WTA Finals or maybe get back in [the] top 10, but this was the right choice that I made,” she noted.
She is now prepared to face challenging situations in matches with a refreshed mindset. “If I would have pushed myself to finish the year, I don’t think I would start the season even playing in Australia,” Svitolina admitted. “I might have faced serious mental and physical injuries.”
Looking ahead, Elina Svitolina is set to face 23rd seed Diana Shnaider in the third round of the Australian Open, continuing her focus on balancing mental health with her professional commitments.
