- The first Grand Slam tournament of 2025, the Australian Open, begins on Sunday
- Elena Rybakina announced the return of coach Stefano Vukov on Wednesday
- Vukov was previously Rybakina’s coach for five years before leaving in August
Former Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina’s coach has been suspended by the WTA as he is investigated for a breach of their code of conduct.
Rybakina split with coach Stefano Vukov last August before on Wednesday announcing that the Croat would be rejoining her team. The investigation had until then been conducted in private but Rybakina’s decision to bring Vukov back into the fold has forced the issue into the spotlight.
The allegations are confidential but Vukov told the Athletic website: ‘Definitely never abused anyone.’
A WTA spokesperson said: ‘The WTA can confirm that Stefano Vukov is currently under a provisional suspension pending an independent investigation into a potential breach of the WTA Code of Conduct.
‘As part of the provisional suspension, Mr. Vukov is not eligible to obtain a WTA credential at this time.
‘While the WTA does not typically comment on active investigations, we believe it is necessary to clarify this matter due to recent public statements that misrepresent the situation.
Coach Stefano Vukov has been provisionally suspended by the WTA pending investigation
Elena Rybakina announced on Wednesday that Vukov would return to her camp after they parted ways back in August
Rybakina is due to take part in the Australian Open this month but Vukov is barred
‘We will not provide further details at this point in time.’
Given that Vukov’s suspension began last year, his re-hiring represents a show of support from Rybakina – and a challenge to the WTA.
Under the rules of the suspension, Vukov is ineligible for a coaching licence or for accreditation to work at the Australian Open – meaning he is banned from being either on the practice courts or the players’ box on court.
Rybakina could now take the bizarre step of acquiring tickets for her ‘coach’ to watch from the stands alongside members of the public.
It is unclear where the return of Vukov leaves Goran Ivanisevic, the former coach of Novak Djokovic who was hired by Rybakina in November. It is understood that Ivanisevic has been blindsided by the news.
Vukov’s at times aggressive on-court communication with Rybakina has been criticised in the past, with former Wimbledon doubles champion and coach Pam Shriver being especially outspoken. Rybakina has always defended him.
The investigation is reaching its final stages and the verdict is likely to be announced before the start of the Australian Open.
Rybakina and the Australian Open have been contacted for comment.
