Goran Ivanisevic, celebrated as the 2001 Wimbledon champion, is embarking on a new chapter in his coaching career by partnering with another Wimbledon titleholder, Elena Rybakina. The Kazakhstani star is preparing for her highly anticipated appearance at the WTA Finals in Riyadh, having been absent from the courts since her early exit at the US Open. Rybakina officially confirmed her new coaching arrangement with Ivanisevic, and their collaboration is set to begin during the off-season, with plans to kick off intensively in January 2025.
This unexpected pairing marks a fresh start for both Ivanisevic and Rybakina. Ivanisevic, well-versed in coaching top-tier players, has a history of success, notably with Novak Djokovic, whom he coached from 2019 until their amicable split earlier in 2024. This new challenge is unique for Ivanisevic as it will be his first time coaching a female player, and both he and Rybakina are optimistic about the potential to achieve significant success together.
### Ivanisevic’s Coaching Journey
Goran Ivanisevic’s transition from player to coach came a decade after he retired from professional tennis. His first prominent coaching role was with Marin Cilic, another Croatian star, whom he guided from 2013 to 2016. Their partnership was a fruitful one, with Cilic climbing the ATP rankings and solidifying his place as a powerful force on the circuit. Ivanisevic later joined the coaching staff of Tomas Berdych, working with the Czech player until 2017, and subsequently collaborated with Canada’s Milos Raonic.
The most significant chapter of Ivanisevic’s coaching career came in 2019, when he joined forces with Novak Djokovic. Their nearly five-year partnership yielded remarkable achievements, including Djokovic’s 2019 Wimbledon victory just months after Ivanisevic came on board. Together, they secured 24 trophies, including nine Grand Slam titles, solidifying Djokovic’s standing as one of the sport’s all-time greats. Ivanisevic’s influence was instrumental in Djokovic’s three year-end World No. 1 rankings, and their collaboration contributed to Djokovic’s ascent in the “Greatest of All Time” conversation. Their mutual respect and chemistry were evident, making Ivanisevic’s departure in March 2024 a respectful and amicable transition.
### New Beginnings with Rybakina
For Ivanisevic, coaching Rybakina is an exciting new endeavor, representing both a shift to working in the WTA circuit and his first opportunity coaching a female player. Rybakina, known for her power game and tactical prowess, has shown tremendous potential since her breakthrough at Wimbledon in 2022, where she claimed her maiden Grand Slam title. However, her journey in 2024 has been challenging, with various injuries impacting her season and a high-profile breakup with her former coach Stefano Vukov, who coached her for nearly eight years.
This split from Vukov was surrounded by controversy, with Russian journalist Sonya Tartakova sharing troubling details about Vukov’s alleged treatment of Rybakina. According to Tartakova, Vukov imposed intense psychological pressure on Rybakina, reportedly damaging her mental health and confidence. The Kazakhstani star’s decision to end their partnership appears to be a positive step toward focusing on her well-being and fostering an environment that prioritizes her mental and physical health. With Ivanisevic now in her corner, Rybakina is ready to reset and refocus for the upcoming season. The partnership is set to start officially during the off-season, with both aiming to bring a fresh approach and deliver impressive performances, beginning with the Australian Open in January.
### Rybakina’s 2024 Season Highlights
Despite a year marred by injuries, Rybakina’s 2024 season has showcased her undeniable talent and resilience. She holds a 41-9 win-loss record going into the WTA Finals, with three titles to her name and a strong presence in the WTA’s top 5. Rybakina started the season on a high note, claiming the Brisbane title by defeating Aryna Sabalenka in the final. However, her Australian Open campaign ended early in a dramatic match against Anna Blinkova, where Rybakina squandered seven match points before losing in a historic 22-20 match tiebreak. Not to be deterred, Rybakina continued her momentum, winning another title in Abu Dhabi and reaching the Doha final, where she lost to Iga Swiatek.
Rybakina’s form continued through the spring season, although she missed Indian Wells due to injury. She made it to the Miami final, eventually falling to Danielle Collins, and then captured another title in Stuttgart, overcoming Swiatek in a thrilling final match. Her clay season was equally impressive, highlighted by a hard-fought semifinal in Madrid, where she lost narrowly to Sabalenka in a close encounter. Rybakina continued her run to the quarterfinals of the French Open and later made it to the semifinals at Wimbledon, demonstrating her consistent performance across different surfaces.
Following Wimbledon, Rybakina’s season took a hit as injuries became more frequent. She only played two matches after Wimbledon, experiencing an early exit in Cincinnati and ultimately withdrawing from the US Open before her second-round match. Her decision to sit out the remainder of the season before the WTA Finals highlights her desire to recover fully and approach 2025 with renewed energy and focus. Partnering with Ivanisevic offers her a fresh start and a chance to elevate her game with one of the most experienced coaches in the business.
### Anticipation for the 2025 Season
As Rybakina heads into the WTA Finals in Riyadh, her sights are set on concluding the year on a positive note. The Riyadh event marks a pivotal moment for Rybakina as she prepares to transition to the 2025 season under Ivanisevic’s guidance. Their work together will begin in earnest during the off-season, with a specific emphasis on building Rybakina’s endurance, mental fortitude, and strategic play.
Ivanisevic’s approach to coaching has always focused on maximizing his players’ strengths while refining their weaknesses. His extensive experience working with top ATP players and his success with Djokovic in high-pressure scenarios will be invaluable for Rybakina as she navigates the challenges of the WTA circuit. Moreover, his familiarity with handling player injuries and rehabilitation will be a crucial asset for Rybakina as she seeks to avoid setbacks in the upcoming season.
The Australian Open in January 2025 will be the first major test for the new team, and both Rybakina and Ivanisevic are eager to see the results of their efforts. With Rybakina’s powerful baseline game and Ivanisevic’s strategic insights, they aim to make a formidable pairing. The Kazakhstani star’s fresh perspective and rejuvenated coaching support provide her with a strong foundation to reclaim her place among the sport’s elite players.
Ivanisevic’s entry into the WTA circuit with Rybakina is a thrilling development that promises to add a new dimension to both their careers. Tennis fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how their collaboration unfolds, with high hopes for Rybakina’s 2025 season as she seeks to reach new heights with one of tennis’s most renowned coaches by her side.