WTA Upholds Ban on Elena Rybakina's Former Coach Stefano Vukov
The suspension follows an investigation into allegations of verbal and mental abuse, despite Rybakina's public defense of her ex-coach.
- Stefano Vukov, former coach of Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina, has had his suspension upheld by the WTA after an investigation into alleged breaches of the code of conduct.
- The WTA cited confidentiality in declining to reveal specific findings, but reports allege Vukov engaged in verbal abuse, including derogatory remarks and pushing Rybakina beyond physical limits.
- Rybakina, ranked World No. 7, has consistently defended Vukov, stating he never mistreated her and expressing disappointment with the WTA's decision.
- Following her split with Vukov in 2024, Rybakina briefly worked with coach Goran Ivanisevic before hiring Davide Sanguinetti earlier this month.
- Rybakina continues to compete, advancing to the Qatar Open quarterfinals, where she will face Iga Świątek, despite the ongoing coaching controversy.