Elena Rybakina, the formidable Kazakh tennis star and reigning Wimbledon champion, has recently opened up about her decision to part ways with her longtime coach, Stefano Vukov. Their split, which occurred earlier this year just ahead of the US Open, has ignited a wave of speculation and rumors within the tennis community, particularly concerning the dynamics of their professional relationship. Rybakina’s remarks come as she prepares to compete in the prestigious WTA Finals in Riyadh this week, where she aims to demonstrate her skills and determination on a global platform.
Rybakina and Vukov’s partnership lasted nearly five years and was marked by several notable achievements, including her incredible triumph at Wimbledon in 2022. This victory solidified her status as one of the top players in women’s tennis and showcased her potential to compete at the highest levels. However, their journey together was not without its challenges. Throughout their collaboration, fans often expressed concerns regarding Vukov’s coaching style, particularly his vocal demeanor during matches. Observers noted that his emotional responses could sometimes appear excessive, leading to a mixed reception among Rybakina’s supporters.
Following their separation, claims emerged from tennis insiders suggesting that Vukov had a history of verbal abuse directed toward Rybakina, both on and off the court. These allegations painted a troubling picture of their professional relationship, contributing to increased scrutiny and debate among fans and analysts alike. This environment of speculation made it even more crucial for Rybakina to clarify the nature of their parting.
In a candid pre-tournament press conference, Rybakina addressed these swirling rumors directly, emphasizing that the split was amicable and far less dramatic than some media narratives suggested. “I know that there are a lot of rumors going around,” she stated firmly. “But honestly, we just parted ways with Stefano. I think we had incredible results over five years. We achieved a lot together. I started with him when I was ranked 200, and I think it’s just now time for the next chapter of my career. I want to make the next step.” Her confidence in their accomplishments together underscored her respect for Vukov, even as she looked ahead to new opportunities.
Rybakina acknowledged that ending a long-term coaching relationship can be a significant shift, yet she views this transition positively. “Of course it’s a big change, but I think it’s going to be a good change,” she reflected thoughtfully. “It’s not easy when you’ve worked with someone for such a long time.” Despite the emotional weight of the transition, Rybakina reiterated that she harbors no animosity toward Vukov, wishing him well in his future endeavors. “We are good with Stefano. I wish him all the best in his new chapter,” she added, signaling a mature and professional approach to the situation.
Looking to the future, Rybakina has announced her plans to work with renowned coach Goran Ivanisevic, a former Wimbledon champion and one of the sport’s most respected figures. Ivanisevic has built a storied coaching career, most notably guiding Novak Djokovic to numerous Grand Slam titles, which has established him as a powerhouse in tennis coaching. Rybakina has long admired Ivanisevic and is eager to learn from his extensive experience. “I definitely wanted to work with him,” she said enthusiastically. “I’m sure since he said yes, he feels the same way. It’s very interesting for me, and I want to learn. I’m just looking forward to this new journey.” This excitement for their collaboration hints at a fresh start and the potential for further growth in her game.
However, Rybakina will face the WTA Finals without a main coach for the time being, as Ivanisevic will officially join her team only at the beginning of the new season. Despite this, Rybakina remains unfazed and confident in her current support team, which includes her fitness coach, physiotherapist, agent, and her sister Anna, who will be with her during the tournament. “I’ve been practicing a lot physically to feel better,” she explained. “I had great practices with Simona, and I’m here with my team. I just want to enjoy this tournament and see how I feel on the court.” Her emphasis on enjoyment and preparation reflects a healthy mindset as she navigates this transitional period.
In Riyadh, Rybakina faces a formidable challenge in the group stage, where she is drawn alongside notable competitors such as Aryna Sabalenka, Zheng Qinwen, and Jasmine Paolini. This lineup presents an exciting opportunity for Rybakina to test her skills and resilience against some of the best players in the world. The WTA Finals is known for its high stakes and intense competition, and Rybakina will undoubtedly seek to make a statement as she aims to solidify her place among the elite in women’s tennis.
As Rybakina embarks on this new chapter of her career, both fans and analysts will be closely watching her adaptability and performance in the WTA Finals. With her remarkable talent and unwavering determination, there is no doubt that Rybakina remains a formidable presence on the tennis circuit, poised to make her mark in the upcoming season and beyond. The next few weeks and months will be crucial as she embarks on this journey, and the tennis world eagerly anticipates what she will accomplish next.