Gael Monfils beams with pride after Elina Svitolina’s Italian Open triumph

Elina Svitolina produced one of the most emotional victories of her career by winning the Italian Open title in Rome on Saturday, with husband Gael Monfils leading the celebrations after her triumph.

Svitolina defeated Coco Gauff 6-4, 6-7(3), 6-2 in a hard-fought final to capture her third Italian Open crown and end an eight-year wait for the title in Rome.

Shortly after the win, Monfils shared an emotional message on social media, praising Svitolina not only for her tennis achievements but also for her journey back to the top after motherhood and injury setbacks.

“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.

He also hailed Svitolina as an “incredible mom” to their daughter Skai and said her strength and composure continued to inspire him every day.

Svitolina completes remarkable comeback

The title marked a major milestone in Svitolina’s comeback story. Since becoming a mother in 2022, the Ukrainian star has battled injuries and inconsistent form before re-establishing herself among the top players on the WTA Tour.

Her victory in Rome was also her first WTA 1000 title since becoming a mother and added another chapter to her successful history at the tournament after previous triumphs in 2017 and 2018.

Against Gauff, Svitolina relied on her trademark movement and defensive skills to control long rallies and edge the opening set 6-4.

Gauff responded strongly in the second set and forced a tiebreak, where the American raised her level to level the match. However, Svitolina regained complete control in the decider, dominating from the baseline and counterattacking brilliantly to seal the title.

Historic feat in Rome

Svitolina’s run to the championship included victories over several top-ranked opponents, including Elena Rybakina and Iga Swiatek.

With the triumph, Svitolina became the oldest player since 1990 to defeat three top-five opponents in a single WTA 1000 tournament, surpassing a previous benchmark held by Serena Williams.

The victory further strengthened Svitolina’s preparations ahead of the upcoming French Open, where she is expected to be one of the strongest contenders on clay.