Elena Rybakina’s Shocking Reunion with Banned Coach Steve Vukov: Fans Outraged and Players Divided
The tennis world is buzzing with controversy as Elena Rybakina’s decision to reunite with her banned coach, Steve Vukov, has sparked fierce reactions from fans and divided opinions among players. Despite Vukov’s suspension by the WTA for a code-of-conduct breach, he has resurfaced alongside the Kazakh star, leaving many questioning the nature of their relationship.
The saga began when Rybakina parted ways with her long-time coach, Stefano Vukov, at the end of the 2024 season, only to announce Vukov’s return to her team for 2025. Reports revealed a tumultuous history between Rybakina and Vukov, with allegations of aggressive behavior, mental abuse, and harassment following their split. The WTA’s investigation concluded that Vukov had pushed Rybakina to the point of illness and created a toxic environment for the player.
While Rybakina has added a new coach, Davide Sanguinetti, to her team, Vukov’s presence continues to loom large. A recent photo showing them together at a private tennis club has fueled fan outrage, with many taking to social media to express their disappointment. The WTA’s stance on Vukov’s behavior as contradictory to a safe environment for players has only added fuel to the fire.
As Rybakina gears up for the Billie Jean King Cup qualifiers in Brisbane, her choice to stick with Vukov has raised eyebrows and drawn criticism. With her ranking potentially at stake due to missed tournaments, the decision to align herself with a banned coach has left both fans and fellow players puzzled.
Amidst the uproar, questions have also been raised about Rybakina’s family’s absence and their stance on her relationship with Vukov. The mysterious disappearance of her sister, Anna, from her side has not gone unnoticed, leading fans to speculate on the dynamics at play within the Rybakina family.
Despite the backlash and controversy, Rybakina remains steadfast in her support of Vukov, insisting that he never abused her and criticizing the WTA’s disciplinary process. The complex web of relationships and allegiances in the tennis world has once again come under scrutiny, with Rybakina and Vukov at the center of a storm of conflicting emotions and opinions.
As the tennis community grapples with the fallout of this shocking reunion, one thing remains clear: Elena Rybakina’s choice to stand by her banned coach has set off a chain reaction of outrage and disbelief that shows no signs of abating.
