World number seven, Elena Rybakina, has expressed her disappointment after the WTA upheld its ban on her former coach, Stefano Vukov. The decision follows an independent investigation into Vukov’s conduct, which allegedly breached the WTA’s Code of Conduct. The 37-year-old Croat, who helped Rybakina win Wimbledon in 2022, was provisionally suspended in January, and the governing body confirmed on Tuesday that the ban would remain in place.
Rybakina, who recently defeated Rebecca Sramkova at the Qatar Open, admitted the situation has been challenging but emphasized her focus on performing on the court. “I’m just disappointed with the situation and how the process went,” she said. “It’s not the best time, but I want to perform as best as I can.” The WTA has not disclosed the specific reasons for Vukov’s ban or its duration, though his on- and off-court behavior toward Rybakina has been scrutinized.
The Kazakh star had hoped to reunite with Vukov at the start of the year, but the WTA’s decision prevents her from bringing him back into her team. Vukov has denied any wrongdoing, stating last month that he has “never abused anyone,” while Rybakina has also clarified that she never filed any complaints against him. Despite the controversy, Rybakina remains determined to stay focused on her game as she navigates this turbulent period.
Following her split from Vukov ahead of the 2024 US Open, Rybakina briefly worked with Novak Djokovic’s former coach, Goran Ivanisevic, on a trial basis. However, their partnership ended after her fourth-round exit at the Australian Open. Vukov retains the right to appeal the WTA’s decision, but for now, Rybakina must move forward without the coach who played a pivotal role in her historic Wimbledon triumph.
Elena Rybakina “Disappointed” as WTA Upholds Ban on Former Coach
