Elena Rybakina's former coach Stefano Vukov’s ban will continue after WTA’s scrutiny. The Croatian has been facing investigation since the 2024 US Open for his behaviour towards players. After the investigation, WTA upheld the Croatian’s suspension, without specifying the duration of the ban.
The governing body also abstained from releasing further information, citing the reasons of confidentiality and integrity. WTA also abstained from revealing what code Vukov breached which led to the 37-year-old’s suspension.
"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," said WTA in a released statement.
Rybakina, who holds the seventh rank in the World, displayed discontent over Stefano’s ban, saying her former coach never mistreated her during his stint. Vukov also claimed innocence by countering the allegations.
Rybakina's coach conundrum
Elena Rybakina parted ways with Vukov after her dismal performance in the 2024 US Open. Both Vukov and Rybakina worked together for five years and achieved some notable success including the Wimbledon title in 2022. Following the split, there were reports claiming Viukov’s harsh attitude towards Rybakina. However, the Kazakh tennis star denied the claims.
In November 2024, Goran Ivanisevic filled Stefano’s shoes as Rybakina hired the 53-year-old prior to the new season. The duo failed to produce effective results. After the miserable Australian Open, Novak Djokovic’s former coach opted to break the alliance. One of the major reasons for Ivanisevic’s exit was Rybakina's bold decision to reappoint Stefano, who was still facing suspension.
Rybakina brought Stefano back into her squad for the Australian Open 2025. The decision raised eyebrows as Stefano is still facing his ongoing suspension. Rybakina concluded her Australian Open 2025 campaign with her defeat to the US’s Madison Keys in round 16 held in Melbourne.
