Rybakina Supports Vukov: He Has Always Treated Me Well

By Richard Pagliaro | @TennisNow | Saturday, January 4, 2025
Photo credit: Elena Rybakina Instagram

Elena Rybakina stands firmly behind her coach, Stefano Vukov, while addressing the backlash he has faced from certain coaches on the tour.

Just last week, Rybakina excitedly announced that Vukov, who had been an integral part of her journey for over five years, would rejoin her coaching staff, now assisting under head coach Goran Ivanisevic.

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After Rybakina’s announcement, reports emerged via The Athletic, revealing that Vukov is currently facing a provisional suspension, which prevents him from obtaining coaching credentials for the upcoming Australian Open.

Some figures in the sport, including notable names like Pam Shriver and Rennae Stubbs, have publicly criticized Vukov for his past treatment of Rybakina.

However, the World No. 6 Rybakina strongly defended Vukov, asserting that he has never mistreated her and expressed her displeasure at the negative commentary from other coaches. “I’m not particularly thrilled with the situation. I find it disheartening to see remarks from those who are part of the tour,” Rybakina shared during a press conference at the United Cup in Sydney. “These are active coaches and commentators, and I don’t believe it’s fair.”

“What I can say is that he has never mistreated me. I have immense respect for everything he’s done, especially considering my growth from a world No. 200 to a Grand Slam champion. Can you name other coaches who have achieved the same success with players starting from such humble rankings?”

Notably, Ivanisevic, renowned for guiding champions like Novak Djokovic and Marin Cilic, was reportedly caught off guard by Vukov’s return to the team.

Nevertheless, Rybakina expressed satisfaction with her collaboration with Ivanisevic, without addressing whether he shares her enthusiasm for Vukov’s reinstatement. “I’m enjoying my work with Goran; we’ve made great progress in just a couple of weeks. Stefano’s return is also significant, as I’ve known him for six years and believe we can accomplish a lot together, even beyond the court.”