In a shocking twist few could have predicted, Elena Rybakina has announced the reappointment of her former coach Stefano Vukov for the 2025 season, just months after their highly publicized split. The move comes ahead of the Australian Open and has reignited discussions about their tumultuous history and Vukov’s controversial coaching style.
An Unexpected Reunion After a Tumultuous Breakup
Rybakina, who achieved tremendous success under Vukov’s guidance, including her 2022 Wimbledon triumph, had appeared to cut ties with the Croatian coach for good when they parted ways before the 2024 US Open. Their breakup came amid speculation about Vukov’s allegedly harsh behavior, which some deemed detrimental to the Kazakhstani star’s mental health.
The 25-year-old remained tight-lipped about the reasons for their split, withdrawing from the US Open after her first-round win and taking a two-month hiatus from the WTA Tour. During this time, rumors swirled that Vukov had been banned from the WTA Tour, though no official confirmation was ever provided.
Goran Ivanisevic’s Brief Appointment and the Surprising U-Turn
In a move that seemed to signal a fresh start, Rybakina announced during the WTA Finals that Goran Ivanisevic, a legendary coach and former Wimbledon champion, would lead her team into the 2025 season. Ivanisevic, who had helped Novak Djokovic win 10 Grand Slam titles, was seen as the perfect mentor to elevate Rybakina’s game.
However, fans were left stunned when Vukov resurfaced at the World Tennis League last month, where Rybakina was also participating. His presence fueled speculation that he might rejoin her team, a prospect that sparked mixed reactions among her supporters.
On New Year’s Day, Rybakina confirmed the rumors in an Instagram story, announcing that Vukov would not only return for the Australian Open but remain with her throughout 2025. Ivanisevic, however, will retain his position as her primary coach.
A Divisive Decision: Redemption or Regression?
Rybakina’s decision to rehire Vukov has sparked intense debate within the tennis community. While Vukov’s tactical understanding of her game is undisputed—having guided her from the ITF circuit to Grand Slam glory—his controversial coaching style has drawn significant criticism.
Journalist Sofya Tartakova previously reported that Rybakina had endured psychological struggles due to her time with Vukov, making the reunion even more surprising. Some fans worry that the pairing could reignite old tensions, while others believe it signals a mature decision to prioritize results over personal grievances.
What’s Next for Rybakina?
As Rybakina prepares for the Australian Open, where she will be a top contender, her decision to bring Vukov back is certain to dominate headlines. The reunion adds another layer of intrigue to her campaign, as she aims to build on a promising end to 2024, highlighted by a victory over World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka at the WTA Finals.
However, the move also guarantees that Rybakina will face relentless scrutiny throughout the season. Press conferences are likely to be dominated by questions about her relationship with Vukov and how his return impacts her performance and mental well-being.
The Road Ahead: Redemption or Ruin?
For Rybakina, 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal year. With two high-profile coaches in her corner, she has a golden opportunity to reclaim her place among the sport’s elite. But the decision to rehire Vukov—one of the most controversial figures in women’s tennis—means she will have to navigate not only the challenges on the court but also the storm brewing off it.
