Elena Rybakina, a star of the Kazakh tennis scene, is once more in the eye of the storm, engulfed in controversies that have tainted her season. The saga that has unfolded around her relationship with her former coach, Stefano Vukov, has raised many eyebrows and led to a wave of accusations from the tennis community, including charges of mental harassment.
Rybakina had initially parted ways with Vukov to join forces with Goran Ivanisevic, a former coach of tennis legend Novak Djokovic. However, the Serbian swiftly exited the coaching partnership after Rybakina made an unexpected announcement that Vukov would be returning to her team. Amidst these twists and turns, Vukov stands accused of harassment and is currently under suspension.
In a shocking revelation, an Austrian ex-pro tennis player alleges that Vukov has manipulated Rybakina’s mindset. The pair worked together from 2019 until they separated in August 2024. Vukov’s questionable conduct and alleged verbal abuse towards the former Wimbledon champion led to an investigation by the WTA, which reportedly found him in breach of their code of conduct. The result was a provisional suspension.
Despite the charges and suspension, Rybakina stood by her former coach, stating that she had not lodged any complaint against him. This has left many confused, leading to speculation about the nature of their relationship. Eurosport expert Barbara Schett, who has conversed with Ivanisevic following his split from Rybakina, suggests that the pair might be romantically involved.
Schett is also a strong advocate for Vukov’s ban, stating that she believes he exploited Rybakina psychologically. She explains, “In my view, he completely manipulated Elena. You can observe his treatment and remarks towards her. Things worsened at the 2024 US Open, and her family and team attempted to distance him. She has significant mental fluctuations, likely due to him. He unquestionably mentally abused her, which is why I support his WTA ban.”
In addition to the Vukov controversy, Rybakina’s team has seen further upheaval. Her fitness coach, Azuz Simsich, who had been with her since 2022, recently announced his departure, expressing gratitude for their shared experiences and wishing her future success.
Rybakina has been tight-lipped about her alleged ‘toxic’ relationship with Vukov, but she did tell APF that the scandalous headlines are damaging for all involved. Despite the storm of speculation, she has refused to publicly denounce Vukov.
The decision to re-appoint Vukov to her coaching team at the start of 2025 was puzzling to many, especially as he is currently suspended. Rybakina now finds herself working with current coach, Davide Sanguinetti. After a respectable semi-final finish in Dubai, she must now focus on reigniting her on-court prowess if she hopes to regain the equilibrium in her career. Will she be able to recapture her former glory? Only time will tell.