Elena Rybakina has expressed her disappointment over the lack of support from fellow players following the controversial suspension of her coach, Stefano Vukov. Earlier this year, the WTA announced that Vukov had been provisionally suspended pending an investigation into a potential breach of the organization’s code of conduct. This decision came after Rybakina revealed that Vukov would be rejoining her team, despite the fact that they had parted ways just before the 2024 US Open.
Vukov had previously coached Rybakina from February 2019 until their separation in August 2024. Last week, the WTA confirmed that Vukov would remain suspended from coaching Rybakina in any official capacity. The Athletic reported that the suspension would last for one year.
In a formal statement, the WTA provided an update on the investigation: “The WTA confirms that the independent investigation into a potential breach of the WTA Code of Conduct by Stefano Vukov has concluded. Following this process, the suspension remains in place. To protect the confidentiality and integrity of the investigation and its findings, the WTA will not provide further details. We remain committed to ensuring that all matters are handled in a fair and objective manner in accordance with the WTA Code of Conduct.”
The Athletic also revealed some startling information about the nature of Rybakina’s relationship with Vukov, citing “mental abuse” and describing the pair’s dynamic as “toxic,” a view supported by the WTA’s chief executive, Portia Archer. Despite these allegations, Rybakina has consistently stated that Vukov “has never mistreated” her and defended their professional relationship since the investigation began.
As Rybakina continues her campaign at the WTA 1000 tournament in Dubai, where she secured a solid 6-3, 6-2 victory over world No. 62 Moyuka Uchijima in the opening round, she reflected on the situation in her post-match press conference. When asked whether she had received any support from her peers, Rybakina admitted to feeling disheartened by the lack of outreach.
“It’s very disappointing the way it’s been handled, just the outcome,” Rybakina shared. “No one offered any support. Honestly, I don’t need [it]. There are a couple of players I’m in touch with more. But to say that I have very, very close friends on tour, I think that’s not true, just because we’re all competing against each other. Everyone is surrounded by their teams.”
Rybakina acknowledged that she does have a few close friends on tour, but emphasized the importance of time and the demands of the sport: “I have a couple of good friends, let’s say. But again, it’s all about time—how much you can spend outside of your professional commitments.”
The 2022 Wimbledon champion is determined to stay focused on her game despite the ongoing controversy. “I need to focus on my tournament. That’s what I’m trying to do. Hopefully, I can just keep playing and keep winning,” she concluded, keeping her eyes on the prize as she navigates through this challenging period.