The tennis world was rocked by controversy on the eve of the 2025 Australian Open, as reigning Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina publicly challenged the WTA’s decision to provisionally suspend her longtime coach Stefano Vukov. The unexpected ban, pending an independent investigation into potential breaches of the WTA’s code of conduct, has cast a shadow over Rybakina’s preparations for the year’s first Grand Slam.
Rybakina Denies Complaints Against Vukov
Speaking at a tense press conference in Melbourne, the world No. 6 took a defiant stance, insisting she had never lodged any complaints about Vukov’s behavior during their lengthy partnership. Rybakina’s blunt rejection of the allegations underlying the WTA’s move raised eyebrows across the sport.
I always said that he never mistreated me.
– Elena Rybakina on Stefano Vukov
Shriver Comments Draw Ire
Rybakina took particular issue with remarks from former player turned commentator Pam Shriver, hinting at a coordinated effort to tarnish Vukov’s reputation without due process. The 2022 Wimbledon winner made it clear she wants to focus on her tennis rather than off-court distractions as she chases a maiden Australian Open title.
Uncertainty Over Coaching Setup
The Kazakh star’s plans were thrown into disarray when Vukov’s credentials were revoked shortly after she announced his return to her team for the 2025 season. Rybakina had previously worked with former Wimbledon champion Goran Ivanisevic, but will now need to rely on other members of her support staff unless the suspension is lifted.
- 2022: Rybakina wins Wimbledon, splits with Vukov
- 2023: Runner-up finish at Australian Open with Ivanisevic
- 2025: Vukov rejoins team, then suspended by WTA
Potential Impact on Australian Open Campaign
It remains to be seen how the uncertainty surrounding Vukov will impact Rybakina’s performance at Melbourne Park, where she came painfully close to victory in 2023. The 25-year-old possesses the firepower to challenge for major titles, but may need to lean on her mental toughness more than ever amidst the ongoing controversy.
As the tennis community awaits further details on the nature of the allegations against Vukov, Rybakina finds herself in the unwelcome position of having to navigate a major tournament with the conduct of her longtime mentor under intense scrutiny. Her reaction to the provisional suspension has only intensified the sense of intrigue hanging over the entire episode. With more plot twists likely still to come, this developing story threatens to overshadow the on-court action in the early days of the 2025 tennis season.
