Elina Svitolina completed a remarkable comeback story by winning the Italian Open title in Rome on Saturday, with husband Gael Monfils sharing an emotional tribute that quickly won over tennis fans online.
Svitolina defeated Coco Gauff 6-4, 6-7(3), 6-2 in a high-quality final to clinch her third Italian Open crown and her first WTA 1000 title since becoming a mother. Soon after the win, Monfils posted a heartfelt message celebrating Svitolina’s resilience, strength and journey back to the top of women’s tennis.
“Eight years. Eight years to climb back to the top of a Masters 1000. What a season, what a week, what a player. But above all, what a woman,” Monfils wrote on social media. The French star also praised Svitolina for balancing motherhood and professional tennis, calling her an “incredible mom” to their daughter Skai while describing her as an inspiration every day.
“I’m so proud of you, my love. Of your strength, your calm, of everything you carry quietly day after day. You inspire me every single day,” Monfils added.
Svitolina shines in Rome again
The title marked another major chapter in Svitolina’s comeback after becoming a mother in 2022 and battling injuries over the past few seasons. Having previously won the tournament in 2017 and 2018, the Ukrainian returned to the top in Rome with an impressive run against some of the best players on tour.
Against Gauff, Svitolina used her movement and defensive skills to dictate long rallies and claim the opening set 6-4.
Gauff responded strongly in the second set and won the tiebreak to force a decider, but Svitolina dominated the final set with her consistency from the baseline and smart counterattacking to seal the victory.
Historic achievement
Svitolina’s route to the title included victories over top players such as Elena Rybakina and Iga Swiatek. With the triumph, she became the oldest player since 1990 to defeat three top-five opponents in a single WTA 1000 event, surpassing a previous record held by Serena Williams.
The victory also reinforced Svitolina’s status as one of the leading contenders heading into the upcoming French Open.
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