Stefano Vukov, former coach of tennis star Elena Rybakina, has been suspended by the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) following an independent investigation. The WTA has withheld the nature and specific findings of the investigation, citing the need to protect confidentiality and integrity. This development comes amid Rybakina’s current participation in the Qatar Open, where she is set to compete in the quarterfinals on Friday.
Elena Rybakina, ranked seventh in the world, expressed her disappointment over the situation and the procedural aspects of the investigation. She parted ways with Vukov prior to last year's US Open, ending a five-year coaching relationship that saw her clinch her first and only Grand Slam title at Wimbledon in 2022. The reasons behind their split remain undisclosed, although Rybakina continued to receive his advice during the Australian Open despite the ongoing WTA investigation.
The investigation has had tangible impacts on Vukov's professional credentials. Due to the suspension, he was unable to receive credentials for the Australian Open. Yet, Rybakina maintained that she "never made any complaints" about Vukov or experienced any mistreatment from him. Vukov has also denied any wrongdoing, as reported by The Associated Press.
“Following this process, the suspension remains in place. To protect the confidentiality and integrity of the investigation and its findings, the WTA will not provide further details. We remain committed to ensuring that all matters are handled in a fair and objective manner in accordance with the WTA Code of Conduct.” – WTA
Rybakina's coaching dynamics have shifted significantly in recent months. She is currently working with former player Davide Sanguinetti as her coach. Additionally, she briefly collaborated with Goran Ivanišević, former coach of Novak Djokovic, but he announced his departure from her team following the Australian Open.
“I’m not going to comment much on that any more,” – Elena Rybakina
Despite the complexities surrounding her coaching situation, Rybakina remains focused on her tennis performance. She stated that while it is "not the best time," she concentrates on her matches and aims to perform at her best.
“I’m focusing on my matches, and when I go on the court I’m thinking only about the way I need to play, so I’m concentrating on myself, and also, of course, on the opponent.” – Elena Rybakina
“Definitely, it’s not the best time, but as I said, I’m always focusing on my matches and want to perform as best as I can.” – Elena Rybakina
Rybakina emphasized her desire to have control over who is in her coaching box but acknowledged that circumstances prevented changes. She noted that her communication with Vukov and involvement with Goran Ivanišević did not detract from her performance or results.
“Of course, I want to have who I want in the box, but I couldn’t change it. At the end of the day, I just tried to focus on my matches. I spoke with (Vukov) and I also have Goran, so it didn’t affect the way I played today or any of the results, I think.” – Elena Rybakina
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