Svitolina said the toll of the war contributed to her decision to end their marriage. In a second statement, she also confirmed that their split was behind Monfils’ sudden retirement.

It means Monfils’ final official tournament was the US Open, where he and Svitolina teamed up in mixed doubles and reached the semi-finals. He won his opening singles match on his 40th birthday before losing to Learner Tien in the second round.

While Monfils cannot compete in the Paris Masters as planned, tournament director Cedric Pioline has not ruled out some form of farewell in the La Defense Arena next month. Organisers have not yet heard from the Frenchman, but are happy to act if and when they do.

“For now, we don't have any more news than that and we respect his difficult time in his life,” Pioline told AFP. “We still have a little bit of time, even though the tournament will start soon. We have accepted that he has retired. We will adapt as soon as there is contact.”

The 12-time title winner is still expected to compete in an exhibition match in Geneva on December 19 to honour the career of three-time Major champion Stan Wawrinka, who will retire in Basel next week. Andy Murray and Roger Federer have also signed up for ‘One Last Backhand’.

Monfils and Wawrinka are expected to play a friendly singles tie before Murray and Federer get involved with some doubles.