Stefano Vukov, the former coach of Elena Rybakina, has officially appealed his one-year suspension from the Women’s Tennis Association. The ban, issued in February 2025, followed an investigation into allegations of verbal and psychological abuse toward Rybakina.
The WTA’s disciplinary action prevents Vukov from coaching at tournaments, holding credentials, or entering player-only areas. However, he is still permitted to coach Rybakina off-site and attend matches as a spectator. Rybakina has publicly defended her former coach, stating that he never mistreated her and expressing disappointment over the ruling.
Vukov’s appeal is being handled through the WTA’s private arbitration process, the only resolution path allowed under tour regulations. The governing body has declined to comment on the case, citing confidentiality rules.
Despite the controversy, Rybakina continues to perform well on the court. She recently won the 2025 Internationaux de Strasbourg, securing her ninth career WTA title. At the French Open, she reached the fourth round before losing to defending champion Iga Świątek in a closely contested match.
As the appeal moves forward, the tennis world is watching closely to see how the case will impact coaching standards and player-coach relationships in professional tennis.
Elena Rybakina in 2025
Currently the world no.11, the Kazakhstani played her last match on the 1st of June when she capitulated to world no.5 Iga Swiatek 1-6 6-3 7-5 in the 4th round of the French Open (draw).
Presently, during this year Elena has managed to achieve a composed 26-10 record. The Kazakhstani clinched 1 title in Strasbourg.