Elena Rybakina being called ‘stupid’ by Stefano Vukov comes to light as WTA CEO details their ‘toxic relationship’ in shocking letter after ban
WTA Bans Stefano Vukov from Coaching Following Code of Conduct Breach
Elena Rybakina’s former coach, Stefano Vukov, has been banned from coaching by the WTA after an investigation into his alleged breach of the code of conduct. WTA CEO Portia Archer reportedly communicated her decision to both Vukov and World No. 7 Rybakina in a letter, citing concerns about their “toxic relationship.”
Rybakina initially parted ways with Vukov before the 2024 US Open, later teaming up with Goran Ivanisevic. However, she stunned the tennis world by reinstating Vukov ahead of the 2025 Australian Open. The WTA swiftly intervened, announcing Vukov’s provisional suspension pending an investigation. Despite both Rybakina and Vukov denying any misconduct, the governing body has upheld the ban.
WTA Investigation Reveals Vukov’s Alleged Misconduct
While the WTA has not publicly disclosed the investigation’s findings, The Athletic reported details from Archer’s letter to Rybakina and Vukov. According to a source familiar with the letter, Archer alleged that Vukov insulted Rybakina by calling her “stupid” and telling her that, without him, she would “still be in Russia picking potatoes.”
The letter also claimed that Vukov subjected Rybakina to emotional distress and worsened her health issues by pushing her beyond her physical limits. Additionally, he was accused of violating the WTA’s provisional ban by disregarding the ‘no contact’ rule and repeatedly reaching out to Rybakina after their professional split.
Archer was unequivocal in her assessment of their relationship, stating that Vukov’s behavior directly contradicted the WTA’s commitment to ensuring a safe environment for all players.
“It’s clear to me you have a toxic relationship,” Archer reportedly wrote.
Rybakina Defends Vukov Amid Controversy
Despite the WTA’s findings, Rybakina has continued to defend her former coach. Speaking at her pre-tournament press conference at the 2025 Australian Open, she firmly denied any mistreatment by Vukov and expressed her disagreement with the WTA’s stance.
“Well, first of all, I don’t want to speak much about what’s next. But as I said before, I don’t agree with a lot of things the WTA has done regarding my relationship with Stefano,” Rybakina said.
“I have never made any complaints or accusations. I always said that he never mistreated me,” she added.
Following her second-round exit in Melbourne, Ivanisevic announced his departure from Rybakina’s coaching team. She has since hired Davide Sanguinetti and has started her Qatar Open campaign with a commanding 6-2, 6-4 victory over Peyton Stearns. Up next, she will face Rebecca Sramkova in the third round of the WTA 1000 event in Doha.
