Tennis star Elena Rybakina has taken significant steps toward turning her 2024 season around following injuries and inconsistent performances, with notable steps taking place prior to US Open such as parting ways with long-time coach Stefano Vukov due to disappointing outcomes from recent results and opting instead for highly respected Goran Ivanisevic, something which caught former tennis professional Andy Roddick by surprise.
Roddick expressed his opinion of Rybakina and Ivanisevic’s unexpected decision to team up during a recent episode of Tennis Channel Live, admitting his surprise over Ivanisevic having previously mostly worked with male players. After further reflection however, Roddick acknowledged potential benefits from such an alliance; given both players’ prowess in serving and court command.
The collaboration between Ivanisevic and Rybakina marks a first for Ivanisevic, who has never before coached a female player. His impressive coaching resume includes names like Marin Cilic, Tomas Berdych, Milos Raonic, and Novak Djokovic, all of whom share Rybakina’s skill for powerful serves. Despite this being Ivanisevic’s maiden foray into the WTA Tour, Roddick believes the new duo could achieve great success together.
Rybakina’s recent struggles were further highlighted at the WTA Finals in Riyadh, as she suffered two straight round-robin losses and remains hopeful about making an effective comeback next season with Ivanisevic as her guide. Although disappointed in both of her round-robin matches at this event, she opened up about overcoming various hurdles, from insomnia to returning from injury-susceptible periods; but also shared how positive attitude kept her motivated against these difficulties and optimistic outlook.
Rybakina’s sole remaining match will be against Aryna Sabalenka; her new partnership with Ivanisevic marks an optimistic new chapter with hopes to make waves on next year’s tennis circuit.