Stefano Vukov, the coach of 2022 Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina, has been given clearance by the WTA Tour. He is eligible to come back today after having a provisional suspension begin in January. This decision comes after months of investigation into a possible violation of the WTA Tour’s player code of conduct. As a result, Vukov’s ability to earn credentials at WTA events has been fully restored. Now with player locker rooms and practice courts available to him.
Later in March, the WTA Tour confirmed Vukov’s ban. Though they didn’t announce any expiration date, it’s still in effect indefinitely. Our art and policy governing body is committed to prioritizing the safety and dignity of every athlete. Yet, they touted this unwavering pledge, despite the details of the case being kept under tight wraps.
“The WTA is fully committed to providing a safe and respectful environment for all athletes and other participants, as set out in our WTA Code of Conduct and Safeguarding Code,” – The WTA.
Elena Rybakina, of Kazakhstan, is ranked No. 10 in the world on the WTA Tour. Just weeks before last year’s US Open, she made the very public announcement that she was breaking up with Vukov. Then she backtracked on that decision before the start of the Australian Open, revealing that Vukov would be rejoining her coaching staff. Rybakina has certainly been on a roll though. She made the semifinals at the National Bank Open in Montreal, where she lost to Victoria Mboko.
“Any sanctions issued following a breach of these safeguarding rules are carefully considered and are subject to appeal before an independent tribunal. While case details remain confidential, we can confirm that Mr. Vukov is eligible to receive credentials at WTA events,” – The WTA.
Vukov’s return couldn’t be better timed for Rybakina as she keeps searching for her best form on the tour after her major breakthrough. Under his reinstatement, a more prosperous relationship can be formed between coach and player as they look towards October’s Asian Games and next year’s Olympic Games.
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