Elena Rybakina Faces Coaching Controversy, Receives Support from WTA Colleague

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Elena Rybakina’s recent coaching changes have become the subject of considerable speculation among fans and commentators, overshadowing her performances on court. Since taking a brief hiatus after US Open and returning at WTA Finals, Rybakina’s coaching situation has dominated headlines – especially after parting ways with Stefano Vukov before US Open 2024 only to reunite later with him after working briefly under Goran Ivanisevic, Novak Djokovic’s former mentor. These events have generated much debate and speculation from fans and commentators alike alike!

As she prepares to take on Iva Jovic in her second-round match at the 2025 Australian Open, discussions around her coaching dynamics have reignited. Donna Vekic and Pam Shriver voiced concerns regarding Rybakina’s coaching environment while offering their sympathies towards Rybakina’s situation; Vekic expressed hope that Rybakina can find happiness both on and off of the court regardless of any challenges she might encounter.

Allegations of a troubling environment created by Vukov were brought to light by Russian journalist Sofya Tartakova, claiming it affected Rybakina’s health and performance. These allegations have led to widespread concern within the tennis community, with Shriver voicing her worries through a telephone interview from LA, where she was attending to family matters amid the wildfires. Shriver spoke of multiple sources expressing concern over Rybakina’s situation.

Rybakina has defended Vukov, stating he has never mistreated her and highlighting her disagreement with the public’s perception. Despite the controversy, she announced Vukov’s return to her team—a decision that prompted a response from Shriver on social media, advocating for the sport to address abusive and manipulative behaviors. Rybakina criticized Shriver for making comments without knowing her personally, emphasizing the uniqueness of each player’s experience.

Vukov’s provisional suspension by the WTA for violating their code of conduct only adds fuel to this firestorm of controversy, yet Rybakina stands by him and backs her coach; suggesting there exists complex relationships and differing viewpoints within tennis communities worldwide.

Rybakina and Vukov’s partnership began in 2019, leading them to achieve notable achievements including winning Wimbledon Grand Slam title and reaching world No.3 ranking by June 2023. Controversies continue to swirl, leaving one uncertain how this may influence Rybakina’s future career and relationship within tennis community.