Elena Rybakina, the 2022 Wimbledon champion, has recently made headlines with a series of unexpected coaching decisions that have significantly impacted her professional trajectory.
Rehiring Stefano Vukov
In January 2025, Rybakina announced via Instagram that she would be reuniting with her former coach, Stefano Vukov, for the 2025 season. This decision came as a surprise, given their split in 2024 amid controversies surrounding their professional relationship. Rybakina expressed her excitement about the collaboration, stating, “Hello, everyone. I am excited to announce that Stefano will be joining the team for the 2025 season.”
Davide Sanguinetti’s Role
Despite the reunion with Vukov, Rybakina also appointed Davide Sanguinetti as her new coach. Sanguinetti, a former world No. 1, emphasized the close bond between Rybakina and Vukov, stating, “Stefano Vukov will always be part of the Kazakh’s team because the pair are close.”
Goran Ivanišević’s Departure
In a surprising turn of events, Goran Ivanišević, who had been coaching Rybakina since November 2024, announced his departure following her elimination from the Australian Open in January 2025. Ivanišević expressed his decision to part ways on social media, citing the conclusion of their trial period.
Stefano Vukov’s Suspension
Complicating matters, Vukov faced a provisional suspension from the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) due to alleged breaches of the tour’s Code of Conduct. This suspension prevented him from attending WTA events, including the Australian Open. Rybakina defended Vukov, stating that he had never mistreated her, and expressed her dissatisfaction with the WTA’s investigation
Impact on Rybakina’s Career
These developments have introduced a period of uncertainty for Rybakina. The coaching changes and the investigation into Vukov’s conduct have raised questions about the stability of her support team. Rybakina’s ability to navigate these challenges will be crucial as she aims to maintain her position among the top players in women’s tennis.
In summary, Elena Rybakina’s recent coaching decisions and the controversies surrounding her team have marked a significant chapter in her career. The unexpected reunions and departures highlight the complexities of professional relationships in the world of tennis and underscore the challenges athletes face in managing their support systems amidst public scrutiny.
