Rybakina defends former coach Vukov amid misconduct allegations

Elena Rybakina, the 2022 Wimbledon champion, has defended her former coach Stefano Vukov following allegations of misconduct that are currently under investigation by the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA), reports a Kazinform News Agency correspondent.

Vukov is accused of breaching the WTA’s code of conduct and has been provisionally suspended from the tour pending the outcome of the investigation.

“I can only say, and I’ve said before, he never mistreated me,” Rybakina stated, dismissing claims of any wrongdoing during their five-year coaching partnership.

Under Vukov’s guidance, Rybakina rose from a world ranking of 200 to winning a Grand Slam title and securing her place among the sport’s elite. The pair split in August 2023, after which Rybakina hired former Wimbledon champion Goran Ivanisevic as her new coach. Their collaboration officially began during the off-season, and the United Cup marked their first tournament together.

Despite her new coaching arrangement, Rybakina surprised many by announcing Vukov’s return to her team this week, though she did not specify his exact role. However, his provisional suspension means Vukov cannot access accredited areas or private player zones at the Australian Open.

Addressing the situation, Rybakina expressed frustration over the public scrutiny. “I’m not happy with the comments I see, especially from active coaches and commentators. I don’t think it’s fair,” she said.

Vukov has denied all allegations, stating he has “never abused anyone.” His coaching methods have come under fire from several prominent figures in tennis, including 22-time doubles Grand Slam champion Pam Shriver, who criticized his return to Rybakina’s team. Shriver, now a coach, described the situation as “sad” and urged the sport to address issues of alleged abuse and manipulation.

Rybakina defended Vukov, emphasizing his role in her development. “He never mistreated me. I respect everything he did, from helping me rise from a ranking of 200 to winning a Grand Slam,” she said.

Despite the controversy, Rybakina continues to work with Ivanisevic, expressing satisfaction with their current partnership while acknowledging Vukov’s contributions off the court.

Earlier, it was reported that Team Kazakhstan failed to advance to the finals of the ongoing United Cup in Perth, Australia, a global men’s and women’s tennis team event held in both Sydney and Perth.