Elena Rybakina's Controversial Coach Vukov Has Ban From WTA Lifted

Tuesday, 12 August 2025 at 00:35

byJordan Reynolds

Elena Rybakina's long-running saga with her coach Stefano Vukov has finally reached the outcome she wanted after his suspension was overturned.

Vukov became Rybakina's coach in 2019. Under his guidance, the Kazakhstani became one of the best WTA players in the world, most notably winning the 2022 Wimbledon Championships, beating Ons Jabeur to achieve that feat.

However, Vukov's coaching style also caused controversy. He is very intense during and between matches, and some have accused him of being harsh and even abusive to Rybakina when she is on the court.

A few days before the 2024 US Open, Rybakina and Vukov suddenly split. The 26-year-old did not provide any reason for their parting at the time, and just wished the Croatian well for the future.

After Rybakina tried to add Vukov back to her team for the 2025 season, the WTA revealed he had been suspended from its events due to mistreatment of her. At the time, she was working with Goran Ivanisevic, who left shortly afterward.

Although the WTA took that step to protect Rybakina, she disagreed with it and claimed Vukov never abused her. The pair are strongly rumored to be in a romantic relationship despite concerns about how he treats the world No. 4.

Vukov's ban from the WTA overturned

An article from The New York Times detailed how Vukov appealed his suspension and entered into private arbitration during the 2025 Wimbledon Championships. The WTA confirmed that Vukov can now return to its tournaments.

"The WTA is fully committed to providing a safe and respectful environment for all athletes and other participants, as set out in our WTA Code of Conduct and Safeguarding Code."

"Any sanctions issued following a breach of these safeguarding rules are carefully considered and are subject to appeal before an independent tribunal. While case details remain confidential, we can confirm that Mr. Vukov is eligible to receive credentials at WTA events. We will not be commenting further."

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Vukov's previous inability to attend WTA events did not stop him from playing an active role behind the scenes. He has been pictured as a member of Rybakina's team in practice photos before she flies to tournaments.

Davide Sanguinetti, who has worked with Rybakina for the past few months while Vukov has been absent from matches, was known to the Croatian, and it appears evident that Vukov appointed him.

Could Vukov's return inspire Rybakina at tournaments?

Aside from winning the 2025 Strasbourg Open in May, Rybakina has largely struggled this season. Many of her losses have been close battles in the deciding set, including against Iga Swiatek at the French Open, Aryna Sabalenka at the Berlin Open, and Victoria Mboko at the Canadian Open.

Rybakina used to be among the best players at digging out tight wins by staying calm. Her demeanor on the court has not changed much, but she has not been as clinical in important moments compared to the previous few seasons.

Although Vukov's suspension being lifted is controversial, it might help Rybakina to play better. Whether that occurs remains to be seen over the coming months.