Monfils Calls Criticism of Svitolina 'Venomous' After Split

French tennis veteran Gael Monfils has spoken out against the criticism aimed at his wife, Ukrainian player Elina Svitolina, after the couple announced their separation. Monfils called the comments "venomous" and said they were "upsetting," making clear he considers the reaction to the split to have crossed a line.

Monfils and Svitolina are both established names on the professional tour, so news of the separation drew attention from fans and commentators. Monfils's response shows that the public discussion around the breakup has reached the point where he felt compelled to defend his partner, even as the couple's private circumstances remain largely their own.

The source report does not specify who made the criticism or which remarks Monfils was reacting to, and it does not add details about the separation itself. It is also unclear whether either player plans further public comment on the matter.