Elena Rybakina’s new coach clears air on where he stands with Stefano Vukov

Elena Rybakina’s coaching journey has been marked by significant changes and controversies in recent months. In August 2024, she parted ways with her long-time coach, Stefano Vukov, after a five-year partnership that saw her rise to prominence, including clinching the 2022 Wimbledon title. The split was reportedly due to ongoing verbal insults and pressure from Vukov, creating a “vicious” cycle, as reported by Russian journalist Sofya Tartakova.

Following the separation, Rybakina appointed former Wimbledon champion Goran Ivanišević as her coach in November 2024. However, their collaboration was short-lived, ending after Rybakina’s unexpected fourth-round defeat to Madison Keys at the Australian Open in January 2025. Ivanišević announced his departure, expressing a desire for a more definitive resolution before making any decisions, yet felt blindsided by the announcement.

In a surprising turn, Rybakina rehired Vukov in January 2025, despite his provisional suspension by the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) pending an investigation into alleged misconduct. Rybakina defended Vukov, stating that he never mistreated her during their partnership.

As of now, Rybakina’s coaching situation remains uncertain. The tennis community awaits further developments as the WTA’s investigation into Vukov continues.