Emergency Alerts: Elena Rybakina Responds to Ongoing Controversy Surrounding Former Coach Stefano Vukov
Kazakhstan’s tennis star Elena Rybakina has publicly addressed the ongoing controversy involving her former coach, Stefano Vukov, whose one-year suspension by the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) has drawn significant attention.
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Background of the Suspension
In early 2025, the WTA concluded an independent investigation into allegations that Stefano Vukov had breached its Code of Conduct. The investigation resulted in a one-year suspension, preventing Vukov from holding an official coaching role at tournaments. The WTA has not disclosed specific details of the allegations, citing the need to protect the confidentiality and integrity of the investigation .
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Rybakina’s Response
Elena Rybakina has expressed her disappointment with the WTA’s decision to uphold Vukov’s suspension. In a statement, she emphasized that Vukov “never mistreated” her during their time together and criticized the WTA’s handling of the situation . Despite the suspension, Rybakina announced that Vukov would rejoin her team for the 2025 season, a move that has sparked further debate within the tennis community .
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Reactions from the Tennis Community
The controversy has elicited strong reactions from various figures in the tennis world. Former professional player Rennae Stubbs described Rybakina’s relationship with Vukov as “dysfunctional” and supported the WTA’s decision to suspend him . Additionally, former Wimbledon champion Pam Shriver has been vocal in urging the sport to address issues of abuse and manipulation, further intensifying the public scrutiny surrounding Rybakina’s coaching choices .
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Current Status
As of now, Stefano Vukov remains suspended and is not permitted to hold an official coaching role at WTA events. Elena Rybakina continues to defend her former coach, maintaining that he was never abusive towards her. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing discussions about the implications for player-coach relationships and the broader tennis community’s approach to handling allegations of misconduct.
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Elena Rybakina’s Former Coach Stefano Vukov Remains Suspe
