Elena Rybakina Faces Scrutiny Over Rehiring Suspended Coach Stefano Vukov

The WTA has provisionally suspended Vukov, citing a potential code of conduct breach, as Rybakina prepares for the Australian Open.

Elena Rybakina has rehired Stefano Vukov as her coach despite his provisional suspension by the WTA for an alleged code of conduct violation.
The WTA confirmed an independent investigation is underway, and Vukov is currently barred from obtaining credentials for WTA events, including the Australian Open.
Vukov, who coached Rybakina to her 2022 Wimbledon title, denies all allegations and plans to remain in Australia to support her from outside official tournament venues.
Rybakina has consistently defended Vukov against past criticisms of his intense coaching style, which some in the tennis world have described as harsh and inappropriate.
The decision to bring Vukov back has drawn mixed reactions from fans and commentators, raising concerns about its impact on Rybakina's preparation for the 2025 Australian Open.