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Elena Rybakina Expresses Disappointment Over Coach’s Ban

Elena Rybakina, currently ranked seventh in the world, has voiced her disappointment regarding the WTA’s decision to uphold the suspension of her former coach, Stefano Vukov. This ruling follows an independent investigation into his conduct towards Rybakina.

The situation began in January when Vukov was provisionally suspended amid allegations of violating the WTA’s Code of Conduct. On Tuesday, the WTA announced that Vukov’s ban would remain in effect.

After her match against Rebecca Sramkova at the Qatar Open, a visibly affected Rybakina remarked, “I’m just disappointed with the situation, and how the process went. I’m not going to comment much more.” She emphasized her commitment to focusing on her performance, stating, “When I go on the court I’m thinking only about the way I need to play,” and expressed that despite the challenges, she aims to deliver her best results.

The lengthy nature of Vukov’s ban remains unclear, along with the specific violations he allegedly committed. However, scrutiny has particularly centered on the nature of his remarks to Rybakina both during and after matches.

Vukov, aged 37, played a significant role in Rybakina’s career, including guiding her to victory at Wimbledon in 2022. Their professional relationship ended shortly before the 2024 US Open in August, a timing that raises questions and concerns for the athlete.

The WTA’s ruling precludes Rybakina from re-integrating Vukov into her coaching team, which she had contemplated for the new year. Vukov has denied any allegations of misconduct, maintaining his innocence in a recent statement to The Athletic, where he declared, “I have never abused anyone.” Rybakina has echoed this sentiment, explaining that she never made any formal complaints regarding Vukov during the Australian Open this year.

While the specifics of the suspension are undisclosed, Vukov retains the right to appeal the WTA’s decision. In the interim, Rybakina briefly collaborated with Goran Ivanisevic, a former coach of Novak Djokovic, but their partnership ended following a fourth-round exit at the Australian Open.

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