In a year marred by health issues and inconsistent form, Elena Rybakina’s hopes of ending on a high note at the WTA Finals in Riyadh were dashed after suffering a second defeat in the group stage. The rising tennis star, who had been tipped to challenge the likes of Iga Swiatek and Aryna Sabalenka for the top spot in women’s tennis, found herself outmatched by China’s Zheng Qinwen in a grueling three-set battle.
Rybakina’s Rollercoaster Season
The 2024 season began with immense promise for Rybakina, who had already established herself as a force to be reckoned with after winning her maiden grand slam title at Wimbledon in 2022. By May, she had amassed an impressive 30-4 record, claiming three titles along the way, including a stunning victory over Iga Swiatek on clay at the Stuttgart Open.
However, the second half of the season saw Rybakina’s fortunes take a turn for the worse. Plagued by various illnesses and injuries, she was forced to withdraw or retire from a staggering 10 events. Despite her reluctance to delve into the specifics of her health issues, sources close to the player have revealed that insomnia has been a significant contributor to her struggles this year.
Coaching Controversy and Change
Rybakina’s on-court challenges were compounded by the intense scrutiny surrounding her partnership with former coach Stefano Vukov. Known for his fiery courtside demeanor and unrelenting critiques of Rybakina’s play, Vukov’s approach drew criticism from several tennis luminaries, including Pam Shriver. The public discourse around their coaching dynamic added an extra layer of pressure to an already trying season.
In a shocking turn of events, Rybakina announced that she would be parting ways with Vukov following her withdrawal from the US Open due to injury. Even more surprising was the revelation that she would be teaming up with former Wimbledon champion Goran Ivanisevic, who had recently guided Novak Djokovic to an astounding 10 grand slam titles between 2019 and 2024.
– Tennis Insider
WTA Finals Disappointment and Future Prospects
Rybakina’s early exit from the WTA Finals, a mere two months after her coaching change, underscores the challenges she faces in her quest to reclaim her position among the sport’s elite. As she prepares for the 2025 season, the tennis world will be watching closely to see if her partnership with Ivanisevic can help her rediscover the form that made her such a formidable opponent in the first half of 2024.
Despite the disappointment in Riyadh, there is no denying Rybakina’s immense talent and potential. If she can overcome her health issues and adapt to Ivanisevic’s coaching style, she has the tools to challenge for the biggest titles in the game. As the new season dawns, fans and pundits alike will be eagerly anticipating Rybakina’s resurgence and the enthralling battles that await on the WTA tour.
