2022 Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina has made a significant addition to her team, following a turbulent few months marked by staff changes and controversy surrounding her coaching setup.
The world No. 4 took to Instagram to welcome Aldo Chiari, an Italian strength and conditioning coach, to her team.
“Welcome to the team @aldoilcoach,” she posted.
Chiari’s arrival comes after the departure of long-time fitness coach Azuz Simcich, who had worked with Rybakina for nearly three years. Simcich announced his exit in February via Instagram:
“After an incredible journey alongside Elena, it’s time to move on. I’m deeply grateful for the experiences, challenges, and unforgettable moments we shared. Wishing you nothing but success and happiness in your future endeavours.”
The Coaching Saga: Vukov, Ivanisevic, and Fallout
The most high-profile storyline surrounding Rybakina this season has been the upheaval in her coaching team. After parting ways with long-time coach Stefano Vukov in August 2024, Rybakina brought on board Grand Slam-winning coach Goran Ivanisevic late in the season.
However, in a shocking move, Rybakina announced on January 1 that Vukov would be returning for the 2025 season. The twist didn’t last long—just a day later, it was revealed that Vukov had been provisionally suspended by the WTA following an investigation into a breach of the tour’s code of conduct. Tennis Australia upheld the ban, denying him accreditation for the Australian Open.
Ivanisevic, reportedly caught off guard by Vukov’s unexpected return, left Rybakina’s camp shortly after the tournament concluded.
The WTA concluded its investigation in February, upholding the suspension and officially barring Vukov from coaching Rybakina in any official capacity.
WTA’s Findings: Abuse Allegations Against Vukov
According to The Athletic, which obtained information from sources briefed on the WTA’s investigation, the suspension will last one year.
WTA CEO Portia Archer reportedly sent a detailed three-page summary to both Rybakina and Vukov on January 31, outlining the reasons behind the ruling. The findings included multiple serious allegations:
- Vukov allegedly called Rybakina “stupid” and claimed that without him, she’d “still be in Russia picking potatoes.”
- He was found to have made her cry, subjected her to mental abuse, and pushed her physically to the point of illness.
- During the 2024 US Open—following their initial split—Vukov allegedly harassed Rybakina by refusing to give her space and breaking the WTA’s “no contact” order under the provisional suspension.
Archer concluded that his behavior was a clear violation of the WTA’s standards and safety policies:
“It’s clear to me you have a toxic relationship,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of a safe and respectful environment on tour.
Team Restructuring in Progress
In response to the WTA’s ruling and Vukov’s suspension, Rybakina brought in Italian coach Davide Sanguinetti to support her moving forward. With Chiari now joining the setup, Rybakina appears to be stabilizing her team after a season rocked by off-court issues.
