Elena Rybakina, the 2022 Wimbledon champion, has been in the spotlight recently due to her complex relationship with her former coach, Stefano Vukov. Despite the ongoing controversy and Vukov’s provisional suspension by the WTA, Rybakina has consistently defended him, stating, “I can only say that Stefano never mistreated me”.
Rybakina and Vukov parted ways in August 2024, just days before the U.S. Open. The split was sudden and left many in the tennis community speculating about the reasons behind it. However, in a surprising turn of events, Rybakina announced in December 2024 that Vukov would be rejoining her team for the upcoming season. This decision came despite Vukov’s suspension, which prevents him from obtaining a credential to WTA tournaments.
The WTA has placed Vukov under provisional suspension pending an investigation into a potential breach of their code of conduct. The details of the investigation have not been made public, but it has raised questions about Vukov’s coaching style and his interactions with Rybakina. Despite the investigation, Rybakina has stood by her coach, emphasizing that she never made any complaints about him.
The tennis community has been divided over the situation. Some, like former world No. 1 Kim Clijsters, have expressed concern about Vukov’s treatment of Rybakina. Others, like Pam Shriver, have been vocal critics of Vukov, citing his aggressive communication style on the court. Rybakina, however, has dismissed these criticisms, stating that those commenting on the situation do not know her personally and that it is unfair to make assumptions.
As Rybakina prepares for the Australian Open, she has expressed her desire to focus on her matches and not dwell on the controversy. She has hired former men’s world No. 2 Goran Ivanisevic as her new coach, but Vukov remains a part of her team, albeit in a limited capacity due to his suspension.
Rybakina’s steadfast support for Vukov highlights the complexities of the coach-player relationship and the challenges that come with navigating public scrutiny and personal loyalty. As the investigation continues, the tennis world will be watching closely to see how this situation unfolds and what impact it will have on Rybakina’s career.
Elena Rybakina in 2025
Now the world no.6, the Kazakhstani played her last match on the 4th of January when she was overcome by world no.2 Iga Swiatek 7-6(5) 6-4 in the semifinal in Australia (draw).
This season Rybakina has achieved a compiled 3-1 record. Elena Rybakina’s latest run in Australia was the best achievement of her season.