French tennis sensation Gael Monfils shared how becoming a father brought a sense of completeness to his life. In 2022, Monfils and his wife Elina Svitolina welcomed their newborn, Skaii Monfils, into the world, a heartwarming moment they joyfully announced on their respective social media platforms. Svitolina, a renowned WTA star, had previously expressed how motherhood had ignited her drive in tennis. Following in his wife’s footsteps, Monfils, a prominent ATP figure, now reflects on the transformative impact of fatherhood on his journey.
Amidst the bustling atmosphere of Indian Wells last year, Monfils touched upon his experience of returning to tournaments as a father for the first time, embracing the profound shift that Skaii’s presence brought into his life.
In a recent press conference, Monfils was prompted by an interviewer to comment on his wife’s sentiments regarding parenthood and whether he shared the same perspective. Monfils responded, “I believe unequivocally that fatherhood changes you for the better. It has been the most rewarding experience for me, and I believe the same holds true for her.” Beyond the realm of parenting, Monfils acknowledged Svitolina not only as a remarkable athlete but also as a compassionate individual, emphasizing the correlation between personal growth and professional success.
Expanding on his thoughts, Monfils remarked, “Becoming a better person invariably translates into enhanced performance both on and off the court. While it may pave the way for her to share her journey with the world, for me, it amplifies the joy in my life.”
Gael Monfils’s candid reflections on the profound impact of fatherhood underscore his current state of contentment during this phase of parenthood. Despite the challenges of juggling tournaments alongside fatherhood, Monfils finds solace in the transformative effect fatherhood has had on his outlook towards life and his professional tennis career, a sentiment echoed by his wife, Elina Svitolina.
Following the birth of their daughter Skaii, Elina Svitolina’s perspective on the dynamic between professional pursuits and motherhood evolved significantly. In an exclusive interview, Svitolina drew inspiration from fellow female athletes who successfully navigated the delicate balance between motherhood and their sporting careers. Reflecting on their resilience, Svitolina shared, “I draw inspiration from women who have returned to professional sports post-pregnancy, like Tatjana Maria, who made a remarkable comeback after having two children. Their stories are truly inspiring, and personally, I find it motivating to witness such feats.”
Svitolina’s admiration for the tenacity displayed by working mothers in sports sheds light on her own journey back to professional tennis post-motherhood, a testament to the unwavering support and inspiration she draws from her peers in the industry.
Gael Monfils’s poignant revelations not only portray him as a stellar ATP professional but also as a devoted father, whose newfound role fuels his determination to excel both on and off the court. Embracing fatherhood has not only enriched Monfils’s personal life but has also catalyzed a positive shift in his professional endeavors, showcasing him not just as a formidable tennis player but as a loving husband and father.