Elena Rybakina’s Australian Open campaign was marred by coaching controversies, notably the absence of her former coach, Stefano Vukov, who was provisionally suspended by the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) due to an ongoing investigation into alleged breaches of the WTA’s Code of Conduct.
Rybakina expressed her preference for Vukov’s presence in her coaching box during the tournament, stating, “Of course, I wanted to have who I wanted to have in the box, but I couldn’t change it.”
Despite the coaching upheavals, Rybakina advanced to the fourth round, where she faced Madison Keys. She acknowledged a back injury that affected her performance, stating, “I still have some pain. So this is something I need to take time to rest, to heal, and then continue to work.”
Following the Australian Open, Goran Ivanišević, who had been coaching Rybakina on a trial basis, announced his departure from her team. He stated, “After our trial period that finished with the Australian Open, I wish Elena and her team best of luck moving forward.”
The uncertainty surrounding Rybakina’s coaching staff continues, with the WTA’s investigation into Vukov’s conduct still ongoing. Rybakina has expressed her desire to have Vukov back in her team, despite the suspension.
As Rybakina prepares for future tournaments, including the Abu Dhabi Open in early February, the resolution of her coaching situation remains a focal point. The outcome of the WTA’s investigation into Vukov’s conduct will significantly influence her coaching arrangements moving forward.
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