Elena Rybakina, the world No. 7, had her eyes set on her first title of 2025 in the Dubai semi-finals, but it wasn’t family cheering her on from the stands.
Instead, it was the father of her former coach, Stefano Vukov, who was spotted watching the match, while Vukov himself was absent due to his recent one-year suspension from the WTA.
This punishment followed an investigation into his violation of the WTA’s code of conduct, leaving the tennis world shaken.
The Details Behind the Suspension
Vukov’s suspension came swiftly after his return to Rybakina’s camp in January, only six months after their professional relationship ended abruptly in New York.
This quick suspension followed a series of shocking allegations, with accusations of emotional abuse, harassment, and mental mistreatment towards Rybakina, particularly after the pair’s split.
Despite these allegations, both Rybakina and Vukov have firmly denied any mistreatment, with Rybakina continuing to express her support for him.
The Allegations and Toxic Relationship
An in-depth report from The Athletic revealed disturbing details about the nature of Vukov and Rybakina’s relationship.
According to the report, Vukov allegedly made Rybakina cry, called her unpleasant names, and engaged in harassing behavior ahead of last year’s US Open.
Furthermore, it was reported that the two may have been romantically involved, with Vukov even joining Rybakina in Melbourne during the 2025 Australian Open.
WTA CEO Portia Archer reportedly described their relationship as toxic in a letter informing Vukov of the ban.
The Investigation and Its Fallout
While the WTA’s investigation wasn’t initiated by Rybakina, it was driven by testimonies from her family, friends, and figures within the tennis community.
These accounts painted a picture of a troubled relationship, complicating the previously fruitful partnership between coach and player.
Their professional bond began in 2019 when Vukov took over coaching Rybakina, leading her to rapid success, including a spot in the top 30 within a year and two titles under his guidance.
Rybakina’s Rise and the Tumultuous 2024 Season
Rybakina’s relationship with Vukov seemed to yield positive results in her early years of coaching.
Under his guidance, she went on to win Wimbledon in 2022, a breakthrough achievement that elevated her career.
Vukov even tattooed her name on his arm as a reminder of her victory, a gesture that raised eyebrows among their peers but was laughed off by Rybakina.
Their dynamic was often described as a study in contrasts, with Vukov’s energetic and critical approach balancing Rybakina’s calm and stoic demeanor on the court.
However, as the years went on, cracks began to appear in their relationship, with Rybakina becoming frustrated by his harsh coaching style.
During a match in Adelaide, she even told him to “shut up,” a moment that caught the attention of commentators and fellow players.
Despite these tensions, Rybakina defended her coach, saying that his comments came from a place of passion and that his approach worked for her.
Rybakina’s Struggles and the Breakup with Vukov
The year 2024 proved challenging for Rybakina, who battled injuries and illnesses, including multiple bouts of COVID-19.
These health struggles caused her to withdraw from several tournaments, including a notable exit from the French Open and the Paris Olympics.
During this period, she and Vukov’s partnership came to a sudden end, with Rybakina publicly announcing her decision via Instagram.
Despite her wishes, Vukov reportedly continued to reach out to her, even showing up uninvited at her hotel and leaving numerous messages in an attempt to convince her to take him back as her coach.
The New Coach and Vukov’s Return
Rybakina’s time with the legendary Goran Ivanisevic was short-lived, with Vukov making an unexpected return to her camp in December, just ahead of the Australian Open.
This came as a surprise not only to Rybakina’s fans but also to Ivanisevic, who was left in the dark about the situation.
Despite a rocky start to their working relationship, Vukov was soon seen in the stands at the World Tennis League event, and Rybakina announced his return in a public statement.
The WTA’s Strong Stance and Rybakina’s Isolation
Rybakina has been outspoken in defending Vukov, expressing frustration that she has been portrayed as a victim in this situation.
She also mentioned her isolation on the tour, noting that no one had offered support after the ban was announced.
Some of her fellow players, however, have expressed sympathy for the WTA’s decision, citing concerns over Vukov’s behavior and the toxic work environment he allegedly created.
The Future of Vukov and Rybakina’s Career
The future of Vukov’s involvement in Rybakina’s career remains uncertain.
While the WTA and Tennis Australia have upheld his suspension, Grand Slam tournaments like Wimbledon are governed by the ITF, which may lead to a different outcome.
As the situation unfolds, it’s clear that Rybakina faces a complex and challenging journey ahead, both professionally and personally, as she navigates the fallout from her relationship with Vukov.
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