By Richard Pagliaro | @TennisNow | Tuesday, January 7, 2025
Photo credit: Corleve/Mark Peterson
A notable reunion is on the horizon, setting off potential changes ahead, as ESPN analyst Rennae Stubbs speculates.
Recently, Elena Rybakina made headlines with her announcement to rejoin forces with her former coach, Stefano Vukov, who will act as an assistant to her newly appointed coach, Goran Ivanisevic.
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During a media briefing via Zoom to discuss ESPN’s coverage of the Australian Open starting this Sunday, Stubbs shared with Tennis Now that due to Vukov’s current WTA suspension, which bars him from receiving a credential for the Australian Open, there could be complications for Goran’s continued involvement.
“It’s intriguing to see Goran navigate this situation with Rybakina, especially with the return of her former coach,” Stubbs noted to Tennis Now. “I’m uncertain how long Goran will stay if this reunion unfolds.”
“I’ve been hearing whispers, and I seriously doubt Goran will remain if that occurs. The dynamics should prove fascinating.”
Catch the exclusive ESPN Australian Open coverage in the U.S. beginning Saturday, January 11th, featuring the First Round streamed live at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN+ and airing at 10 p.m. ET on ESPN2—now two hours earlier than last year. Daily encore performances will also be featured on ESPN2, with expanded Quarterfinal encore broadcasts running for four hours each day.
Following Rybakina’s announcement regarding Vukov’s return, The Athletic reported that Vukov is currently under provisional suspension, which prevents him from coaching at the upcoming Australian Open.
Vukov has faced criticism from various coaches and commentators, including Pam Shriver and Stubbs, regarding his treatment of Rybakina.
However, Rybakina, now ranked No. 6 in the world, has defended Vukov, stating that he has never mistreated her and expressed dissatisfaction with the negative comments from fellow coaches.
“I’m certainly not pleased with the ongoing situation or the remarks I see from some in the tour,” Rybakina said during the media interaction at United Cup in Sydney. “These are active coaches and commentators. I don’t think it’s just.”
“What I can say is that he has always treated me well. I respect him for everything he has done since my rankings were low, and we worked together to achieve Grand Slam success and to reach the top. You can find me other coaches who have achieved similar milestones with players starting from such a low rank.”
