Elena Rybakina Reunites with Controversial Coach Stefano Vukov After Suspension Drama
Okay, buckle up, tennis fans. Elena Rybakina, our reigning Wimbledon champ, has decided to mix things up again, and guess what? Stefano Vukov, the coach she ditched last year, is back in her corner after a jaw-dropping reversal of his suspension. Drama? Oh, there’s plenty. Let’s get into it.
WTA Suspension Overturned
First, the big question. Why did Stefano Vukov get suspended in the first place? Well, according to reports, the WTA handed him a one-year ban after alleged violations, including mental abuse and outright awful behavior. Case in point: He reportedly told Rybakina she’d be “picking potatoes” in Russia without him. Yikes.
Fast forward to 2025, Vukov appealed the ban, and surprisingly, it was lifted. The WTA issued some vague statements about being “committed to a respectful environment” and “carefully considering” safeguarding rules, but refused to spill the tea on what exactly went down. Convenient, huh?
What’s the Deal with Rybakina and Vukov?
Here’s where things get trickier than any spin serve. After parting ways with Vukov in August 2024, Rybakina brought in some big names like Novak Djokovic’s ex-coach Goran Ivanisevic. Solid upgrade, right? But wait, in a move no one saw coming, Rybakina announced in January 2025 that she was reuniting with Vukov. Why? Well, she’s defended him publicly, insisting he never mistreated her and claiming the whole fiasco was blown out of proportion.
Now, the cynics among us might be wondering if this reunion is about loyalty or desperation. After all, her mixed results since their split haven’t exactly screamed “onward and upward.”
The Tennis World Reacts
You didn’t think a story like this could fly under the radar, did you? The tennis community has been buzzing, with coaches and fans divided on this soap opera. Some applaud Rybakina for standing by Vukov, while others are side-eyeing her judgment harder than a line judge during a tie-break.
Even tennis legend Patrick Mouratoglou weighed in, reminding everyone that Rybakina is an adult who clearly knows what she’s doing. But honestly, does she? Reuniting with a guy who allegedly made you cry during practice doesn’t exactly scream “healthy professional relationship.”
What’s Next for Rybakina?
She might be playing doubles with drama right now, but Rybakina still has a singles career to focus on. Coming off a shaky loss to Victoria Mboko at the Canadian Open semifinals, she’s gearing up for her next match at the Cincinnati Open. Will having Vukov back in her team be the turning point she needs? Or are we about to witness another chapter of “This Was a Terrible Idea”?
Why This Matters
Love them or hate them, the Rybakina-Vukov saga shows how personal dynamics can completely reshape an athlete’s career. Tennis is a lonely sport; your coach isn’t just a tactician, they’re also your motivator, cheerleader, and, in this case, source of endless headlines.
Despite the chaos, Rybakina remains one of the most talented players on the WTA circuit. Whether Vukov ultimately helps her reclaim that magic or becomes another footnote in her career remains to be seen.
For now, one thing’s for sure: all eyes will be on this duo. And hey, if it doesn’t work out? At least we’ll have the popcorn ready.
