“Elena Rybakina can sleep with whoever… But this crossed the line” – Tennis insider gives verdict on Stefano Vukov controversy amid romance rumors
Jon Wertheim Weighs in on the Rybakina-Vukov Controversy Following WTA Ban
Tennis journalist Jon Wertheim has shared his thoughts on the ongoing controversy involving Elena Rybakina and her former coach Stefano Vukov after the WTA upheld a one-year suspension against him. The case has gained significant attention, fueled by both concerns over Vukov’s behavior and speculation about a personal relationship between him and Rybakina.
WTA Investigation Confirms One-Year Suspension
The WTA’s decision to impose a full-year suspension on Vukov came after an investigation into his conduct. Initially a provisional ban, the ruling was later made official, sparking widespread debate—particularly given Rybakina’s vocal opposition to the decision.
Amid the controversy, Wertheim appeared on Andy Roddick’s podcast, describing the situation as “messy business.”
“There was this provisional suspension, now it’s been converted into what I’ve been told is a year suspension. It’s really messy business, especially because, as you referenced, there does seem to be a personal relationship that had long been rumored.”
While the WTA has not disclosed specific details behind the ban, various reports indicate that it stems from Vukov’s treatment of Rybakina. However, despite the ruling, the former Wimbledon champion has remained steadfast in her defense of her ex-coach.
Wertheim: “This Crossed the Line”
Despite Rybakina’s support for Vukov, Wertheim emphasized that this is not just about their personal relationship—but something more serious:
“She’s a grown woman, she has agency, she has choice, she can hire whoever she wants, she can sleep with whoever she wants. But read that report. I would urge people to read the reporting of Matt Futterman and Charlie Eccleshare. It’s really disturbing.”
“This is not just, ‘Hey, the coach got in her face, and every coach is different.’ This really crossed the line. I just think it’s a little bit problematic that the player herself does not seem to be on board with this—quite the contrary.”
Wertheim also pointed out that such a strong stance from the WTA is rare, suggesting that the organization saw this case as more than just a standard coach-player issue.
Rybakina Responds: “I’m Just Disappointed”
While competing at the Qatar Open, Rybakina was asked about the WTA’s latest statement regarding Vukov. The world No. 7 kept her response brief, expressing frustration with the process but declining to go into further detail.
“Well, I’m just disappointed with the situation and how the process went. I’m not going to comment much on that anymore,” Rybakina said in Doha.
Next Up: A Clash with Swiatek
Despite the off-court turmoil, Rybakina remains focused on her on-court battle. She is set to face world No. 1 Iga Swiatek in the Qatar Open quarterfinals—their eighth career meeting, with Rybakina currently leading their head-to-head 4-3. The winner will move on to face either Ons Jabeur or Jelena Ostapenko in the semifinals of the WTA 1000 event.
