In a recent revelation that has sent shockwaves through the tennis community, retired Austrian tennis player, Barbara Schett, has expressed her deep concern over the manner in which Leylah Fernandez, a rising tennis star, is being managed by her father and coach, Jorge Fernandez. Schett, who once held the prestigious position of world number 7, fearlessly divulged her thoughts in a candid interview with an Austrian media house.
Schett’s remarks came while she was commenting on the contentious relationship between Elena Rybakina and her coach, Stefano Vukov. She intriguingly pointed out that Jorge Fernandez’s coaching methods were “insane,” which has sparked a flurry of debates across the tennis fraternity.
The former world No. 7 went on to assert that Rybakina seemed to be under the absolute influence of Vukov, to the extent of being “completely brainwashed”. This, she believes, explains Rybakina’s unwavering defense of him, despite the absence of popular support.
Highlighting the fear and hesitation shrouding the tennis circuit, Schett recalled her own experience with Jelena Dokic’s father, whose abusive behavior left her terrified. This, she said, is why players often shy away from airing their grievances publically.
She was quoted saying, “The problem is that many players don’t dare to say anything because they’re afraid of personal consequences.” She further added, “For example, I was incredibly afraid of Jelena Dokic’s father. I would probably never have said anything because I thought he would kill me.”
Pertinently, she also brought up the topic of confidentiality and anonymity in reporting such issues. She suggested that the players would be more comfortable in raising their concerns if they were assured of their identities being protected.
In an unexpected twist, she hinted at the possibility of Jorge Fernandez, Leylah’s father and coach, being the next one to face scrutiny. “And I am also curious to see what happens to Leylah Fernandez’s father because the way he treats his daughter is insane… It is terrible that something like this still exists today and is sometimes accepted,” she stated.
To add to the context, Leylah Fernandez, a Canadian tennis sensation, has been under the tutelage of her father, Jorge, a former footballer, since the onset of her career. The 22-year-old athlete, in her relatively short career span, has already won three titles, reached a Grand Slam final, and climbed up to the 13th position in world rankings.
This revelation from Schett marks the first public instance where Jorge Fernandez’s coaching methods have been questioned. This has undoubtedly put the spotlight on him and how he manages his daughter’s flourishing career. As the tennis world waits with bated breath, only time will tell what repercussions this statement might have.
