In a dramatic turn of events, the WTA has provisionally suspended Stefano Vukov, former coach of 2022 Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina, for a potential breach of the tour’s Code of Conduct. This decision comes just days after Rybakina announced Vukov’s return to her team for the 2025 season. The suspension bars him from accessing WTA practice courts and player boxes, including during the Australian Open.
Rybakina, currently ranked No. 6 in the world, split with Vukov just before the 2024 US Open, later hiring Novak Djokovic’s former coach, Goran Ivanisevic. However, in a surprising January 1 announcement, Rybakina revealed that Vukov would rejoin her team. The WTA’s ongoing investigation, initiated last year, has halted these plans. Vukov denies any wrongdoing, stating, “Definitely never abused anyone.”
The specifics of the allegations remain undisclosed, but Vukov’s coaching methods have faced criticism. During Rybakina’s 2023 Australian Open run, tennis legend Pam Shriver alleged Vukov displayed disrespectful behavior toward his charge. Rybakina defended her coach at the time, describing him as passionate and knowledgeable.
The WTA emphasized its commitment to integrity in a statement: “As part of the provisional suspension, Mr. Vukov is not eligible to obtain a WTA credential. While the WTA does not typically comment on active investigations, we believe it is necessary to clarify this matter.”
This development casts uncertainty over Rybakina’s Australian Open campaign. Despite this setback, she remains one of the top-seeded players, aiming to replicate her strong 2023 performance, where she reached the final before losing to Aryna Sabalenka.
FAQs
Q: Why was Stefano Vukov suspended? A: He is under investigation for a potential breach of the WTA’s Code of Conduct.
Q: Can Vukov coach Rybakina during the Australian Open? A: No, the provisional suspension prevents him from accessing practice courts and player boxes at WTA events.
Q: What is Rybakina’s response to the suspension? A: Neither Rybakina nor Vukov has commented publicly on the suspension.
Q: Who is currently coaching Rybakina? A: Goran Ivanisevic, Novak Djokovic’s former coach, is officially part of Rybakina’s team for the 2025 season.
Q: What criticism has Vukov faced in the past? A: He has been accused of aggressive coaching behavior, which both he and Rybakina have denied.
Leave a Reply