In pictures: Elina Svitolina celebrates her 'cute troublemaker' dog turning one with adorable photos
Ukrainian tennis player Elina Svitolina recently updated her fans about her dog, who turned a year old on Saturday, February 25.
Svitolina, 28, married French tennis player Gael Monfils in 2021. The couple dated for two years prior to their marriage. The tennis couple became parents for the first time on October 15, 2022. Monfils announced the birth of their firstborn child on social media by sharing a glimpse of "Skai." The 36-year-old thanked Svitolina for giving her the "most beautiful gift."
"I had the most amazing night of my life, which ended with the most beautiful gift around 6:00Am. Elina was strong and brave. I can't thank enough my wife and God for this special moment. Welcome to the world my little princess SKAÏ," Gael Monfils wrote, announcing their daughter’s birth.
Svitolina recently shared a few pictures of her dog, revealing that it was the pet's first birthday.
"Our cute troublemaker is 1 year old today," Elina Svitolina captioned her Instagram post.
When will Elina Svitolina make a comeback?
Former World No. 3 Elina Svitolina was seen in action on the tour almost a year ago at the 2022 Miami Open. Svitolina received a walkover in the first round of the WTA 1000 tournament. In the second round, the Ukrainian lost to British player Heather Watson 4-6, 6-3, 7-6(4).
The 28-year-old last won a tournament in 2021, the Chicago Women's Open where she beat Alize Cornet to win the singles title. Svitolina had an impressive 2021 season, reaching two semifinals and winning one title.
During a conversation with the New York Times, the World No. 510 shed some light on her comeback plans. The two-time Grand Slam semifinalist said she is hoping for a return in the summer of 2023.
However, she also mentioned that she was not going to "rush things."
"I will try to be ready for the summer, but I try not to rush things. Because I know I need to be very strong to be back on tour, because right now tennis is very physical," Elina Svitolina said.
During her absence from the tour, Elina Svitolina has become a pivotal figure in criticizing Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Earlier this month, the Ukrainian called for a complete ban of all Russian and Belarusian players from the upcoming Tokyo Olympics 2024.
Earlier this month, she received a special commemorative plaque from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in recognition of her relief efforts during the war.