Elina Svitolina opens up about her and Gael Monfils' baby daughter during fan interaction, hints at making a return during 2023 clay season

Elina Svitolina and Gael Monfils welcomed their first child in 2022. Svitolina has been enjoying a hiatus over the last few months, but she recently gave some clues to her fans about her impending return to the tennis court.

The Ukrainian played her last match in March 2022 at the Miami Open, before announcing that she would be taking some time off from the sport. It was subsequently revealed that she and her husband – French tennis player Gael Monfils – were expecting their first child.

In October 2022, the tennis couple announced the birth of their daughter Skai. And during a recent social media fan interaction, Svitolina remarked that she was thoroughly enjoying her new role as a mother.

“Enjoying veryyy much,” she answered, when asked if she enjoyed being a mom.

The 28-year-old went on to disclose that her six-month-old daughter Skai’s middle name was Rose. She also stated that 'Peppa Pig Snuggle' and 'Cuddle Cloth Book' were Skai's favorite books.

Although Elina Svitolina is having the time of her life with her baby daughter, the Ukrainian tennis player gave a huge clue about her return to the tennis court. She said that she would resume her competitive career “very, very soon,” and hinted that the 2023 clay season could be when she makes her comeback.

“Soon,” the former World No. 3 said, while sharing a picture of a clay court.

Elina Svitolina on Instagram

The Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist had earlier said she would make a comeback over the summer but dismissed any notions of rushing into it. Elina Svitolina recognizes that women’s tennis has become more physical in recent times, which is why she wants to be at her best when she returns.

"I will try to be ready for the summer, but I try not to rush things," she had said. "Because I know I need to be very strong to be back on tour because right now, tennis is very physical."

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Like his wife Elina Svitolina, Gael Monfils is also preparing for a comeback

Gael Monfils suffered a foot injury at the 2022 Canadian Open

Gael Monfils has been out of action since August 2022, which is when he suffered a foot injury in the Round of 16 at the Canadian Open. While Monfils was expected to make a comeback at the 2023 Rotterdam Open, the former World No. 6 pulled out of that event - as well as the subsequent Open 13 in Marseille.

But it seems likely that Monfils, who is currently ranked World No. 208, will mark his return during the Sunshine Double starting with Indian Wells. The ATP Masters 1000 event will be contested between March 6-19, and Monfils was recently spotted on the tournament grounds.

Apart from that, the 36-year-old has also been confirmed as a competitor at the ATP Lyon Open (May 21- 27).