Elena Rybakina, 2022 Wimbledon champion, is reportedly facing psychological challenges after ending her professional relationship with longtime coach Stefano Vukov. Their split was announced just before the 2024 US Open, following a five-year partnership that saw Rybakina rise to World No. 3 in the rankings.

While Vukov initially came under scrutiny during the 2023 Australian Open for his behavior towards Rybakina, the full extent of his influence has only recently surfaced. Journalist Sofya Tartakova has revealed that Vukov’s pressure, insults, and harsh treatment took a significant emotional toll on the Kazakh star.

“All these difficulties… come from the tremendous pressure associated with her former coach Vukov,” Tartakova stated. “There was pressure, insults, bad words.”

Rybakina’s struggles, compounded by physical ailments, have resulted in her withdrawal from several tournaments, including the US Open and the China Open.

Elena Rybakina in 2024

Currently ranked no.4, Rybakina played her last match on the 27^th of August when she beat world no.180 Destanee Aiava 6-1 7-6(1) in the 1^st round of the U.S. Open (draw).

Presently, during this year Rybakina has a 41-9 record. Elena clinched 3 titles in 2024 in Brisbane, Abu Dhabi and Stuttgart. Elena was the finalist in Doha and Miami.