Elena Rybakina Backs Stefano Vukov After WTA Suspension

Elena Rybakina the world number six and 2022 Wimbledon champion has defended her former coach Stefano Vukov, who the WTA is currently investigating. Vukov, who coached Rybakina since she was a teenager, recently received a provisional suspension from the WTA amid allegations of breaching the organization’s Code of Conduct. However, Rybakina clarified that Vukov “never mistreated” her and emphasized their positive relationship.

Speaking after Kazakhstan’s loss to Poland in the United Cup semi-finals, Rybakina expressed frustration with the situation, noting her unhappiness with the public comments from coaches and commentators regarding the investigation. She reiterated that Vukov, who guided her to Wimbledon success is re-joining her team because she trusts him as both a person and a professional, having known him for six years.

While it remains unclear who initiated the complaint that led to the investigation, Vukov has denied any wrongdoing, asserting that he “never abused anyone.” The WTA’s provisional suspension prevents Vukov from receiving accreditation for WTA events which stops him from accessing player-only areas such as practice courts and training facilities.

Despite concerns about Vukov’s behavior, particularly in his interactions with Elena Rybakina, the exact nature of the alleged breaches of the WTA Code of Conduct is still unknown. Rybakina ended her partnership with Vukov before the 2023 US Open, bringing in Goran Ivanisevic as her new coach. The investigation continues but Rybakina continues to offer strong support for Vukov.