2022 Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina has reignited debates within the tennis world by re-hiring her polarizing former coach, Stefano Vukov. Her decision comes even as the Croatian coach is under a provisional suspension by the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) due to alleged breaches of the organization’s Code of Conduct.
Rybakina’s announcement on her Instagram story has stirred strong reactions from fans, experts, and former players, including vocal critic Pam Shriver. Just ahead of the 2025 Australian Open, the timing adds another layer of intrigue to the unfolding drama.
Vukov’s intense and often confrontational coaching style has drawn scrutiny in the past, with instances of him loudly chastising Rybakina courtside during matches. While such behavior earned criticism from commentators like Shriver, the Kazakh player has consistently defended him.
“I can only say and I said it already before that he never mistreated me or it was never anything like that. I have respect to him for everything he did from the very beginning when I was 200 all the way what we did, like, I don’t know. You can name me other coaches who had the same success with players who have been 200 and then winning Grand Slam and being in the top.”
Elena on rehiring coach Vukov, via: FirstSportz
Their previous five-year partnership yielded significant success, including her maiden Grand Slam victory and a career-high ranking of world No. 3. However, their professional relationship ended abruptly last year before the US Open, with little public explanation from either party.
Also Read: Novak Djokovic Gives Honest Verdict on Ex-Coach Goran Ivanisevic’s Partnership with Elena Rybakina
Goran Ivanisevic breaks the silence on Elena Rybakina’s decision and his future with her as coach
The WTA’s decision to suspend Vukov pending an investigation into his conduct has added further complexity. The suspension prohibits him from accessing player-only areas at tournaments, including practice courts and dining facilities, casting doubt on how he can effectively fulfill his role. Vukov has denied all allegations, asserting that he has “never abused anyone.” Meanwhile, Rybakina’s unwavering support for her coach, including her recent re-hiring decision, has puzzled observers about her motivations.
Adding to the controversy is the uncertain role of Goran Ivanisevic, Rybakina’s current coach, on a trial basis. The 2001 Wimbledon champion, renowned for his tenure with Novak Djokovic, was expected to guide Rybakina through the 2025 season.
It’s a very strange situation. So, I don’t want to, really. I can talk to you after WTA makes the decision, and then we can. What’s going to happen in a couple of days, I don’t know. But for the moment, I am here. Hopefully I will stay, and hopefully everything is going to be OK. But let’s take day by day.”
Goran Ivanisevic told The Athletics
Goran Ivanisevic is waiting for the WTA decision on Volkov to decide his role with Rybakina. He said he wants to live in the present and today he is Rybakina’s coach.
“I mean, let’s put it this way: I’m here. I just want to wait for WTA; I think it’s fair. And then, we’ll see what’s going to be next. Still, I don’t want to go too much into the future. It’s today, Tuesday. Let’s stay in Tuesday.”
Goran said on coaching Elena Rybakina; Via: Tennis.com
It remains unclear whether Ivanisevic will continue with the team, especially in light of Vukov’s return. This development raises questions about the dynamics within her coaching setup as she prepares for one of the year’s biggest tournaments.
Why Did Rybakina Rehire Stefano Vukov?
Despite the swirling controversies, Elena Rybakina has remained steadfast in her defense of Stefano Vukov. Her recent statements emphasized the trust and success they built during their prior collaboration. She pointed out that Vukov had been instrumental in her rise to prominence, including her Wimbledon triumph and multiple Grand Slam finals. While critics focus on his courtside demeanor, Rybakina prioritizes the results he has delivered.
The decision to rehire Vukov could also stem from a sense of loyalty. Rybakina began working with him as a teenager, and he played a pivotal role in shaping her into one of the WTA’s top players. For her, his methods, while controversial, may align with her professional needs and ambitions. Furthermore, her public stance against the criticisms he has faced suggests she perceives those concerns as overblown or misinterpreted.
Rybakina’s willingness to go against the grain could also reflect her preference for familiarity over experimentation. After a brief stint with Goran Ivanisevic, she might have found his approach less compatible with her style or goals. By reinstating Vukov, she signals confidence in a formula that has already worked, even as it raises eyebrows across the tennis world.
Lastly, the timing of the decision suggests a calculated move to prepare for the Australian Open. Rybakina’s return to Vukov’s guidance could be an effort to recreate the momentum they achieved during her career-defining victories. However, whether this partnership will yield success under the current restrictions and scrutiny remains uncertain, and the upcoming weeks will likely provide more clarity on her controversial choice.
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