Former Rybakina coach free to rejoin Tour events
Stefano Vukov, the former coach of Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina, has been cleared to return to WTA Tour events after his provisional suspension was lifted. The WTA confirmed that Vukov is now eligible to receive tournament credentials, ending a months-long absence from official venues.
Vukov’s ban, imposed earlier this season, stemmed from an alleged breach of the WTA’s code of conduct. While details were not fully disclosed, the suspension prevented him from accessing player areas, practice courts, and match sites—effectively cutting him off from his role to guide Elena Rybakina on tour.
The Croatian coach, known for his intense courtside presence and strategic input, worked alongside Rybakina during her rise to the Top 5 and her 2022 Wimbledon triumph. Their partnership ended earlier this year, but Vukov remained a visible figure in women’s tennis until the ban.
His reinstatement comes just ahead of the year’s final stretch, including the US Open and the season-ending WTA Finals race. While it remains unclear whether Vukov will reunite with Elena Rybakina or join a new camp, his return adds another layer of intrigue to an already dramatic 2025 season.
Rybakina Never Expressed Hard Feelings Toward Vukov
Rybakina Never Expressed Hard Feelings Toward Vukov
Throughout the suspension saga, Elena Rybakina avoided any public criticism of Stefano Vukov. Speaking to the press, she admitted, “I’m just disappointed with the situation and how the process went.” Addressing media speculation, she added, “I can only say—and I’ve said it before—that he never mistreated me or anything like that.”
Even after parting ways, Rybakina publicly acknowledged Vukov’s role in her career. Following her 2025 Strasbourg title, she said during the trophy ceremony: “Thank you to my fitness coach, physio, Stefano (Vukov)… and of course thank you to my family.”