Gael Monfils has described online criticism aimed at his wife Elina Svitolina as "venomous" and "upsetting".

Earlier this week, Svitolina announced the end of one of tennis’ most prominent relationships in a lengthy Instagram post, attributing the breakdown in part to the impact of the war in her native Ukraine.

This sparked a wave of online hostility towards the world number six, which heightened after she confirmed that the separation had led Monfils to retire earlier than planned.

The 40-year-old Frenchman had originally intended to end his playing career at the Paris Masters next month, but his second-round defeat to Learner Tien at the US Open was his last as a professional.

Monfils published a post on Instagram on Friday evening in defence of Svitolina, whom he married in 2021 and shares a four-year-old daughter, Skai.

“Even though she did not owe anyone an explanation, Elina chose to speak vulnerably and truthfully about her reasons for this decision,” said Monfils.

“She did so in the best way she knew how. Many decided that her explanation wasn’t perfect enough and Elina has now faced a kind of criticism that I have found unkind at best and venomous at worst.

“Elina and I may no longer be a couple, but we are still a family. Though my heart hurts, I am forever grateful to her for her support and love over the years.

“While I am deeply grateful that the public feels so invested in my happiness, I have found the lack of grace and kindness shown towards Elina upsetting.

“While some may not understand her reasons, or agree with them, please remember that there is so much more that happens in a relationship behind the curtain that cannot be explained in a post.

“Elina has her battles to fight, just as I have mine. I respect her choices and reasons, and we will continue to support and care deeply about each other, especially as two people who share a child.”

Svitolina pulled out of this week’s tournament in Ningbo but is set to play at the WTA Finals in Indian Wells next month.

Monfils, meanwhile, will be seen on a court again this year, with Stan Wawrinka revealing that the Frenchman has agreed to take part in an exhibition to mark his own farewell in Geneva in December alongside Roger Federer and Andy Murray.