“Elena Rybakina is an adult… It’s hurt her” – Naomi Osaka’s coach Patrick Mouratoglou makes position clear on Kazakh’s banned ex-coach Stefano Vukov
Patrick Mouratoglou, Naomi Osaka’s coach and a prominent figure in tennis, has publicly addressed the contentious situation surrounding Elena Rybakina and her banned former coach, Stefano Vukov, emphasizing Rybakina’s autonomy as an adult while acknowledging the emotional toll the saga has taken. In an interview with *Sportskeeda* on June 29, 2025, Mouratoglou stated, “Elena Rybakina is an adult. She’s responsible for her decisions, but it’s clear this situation with Vukov has hurt her, both on and off the court.” His comments reflect concern for the 2022 Wimbledon champion’s well-being amid a year-long controversy that has seen Vukov banned by the WTA for alleged abusive conduct, as detailed in a February 2025 investigation summary by *The Athletic*.
Rybakina, ranked world No. 4, parted ways with Vukov in August 2024 before the US Open, following reports of his verbally abusive behavior, including calling her “stupid” and claiming she’d “still be picking potatoes in Russia” without him, per *The Athletic*. The WTA’s probe, concluded in February 2025, upheld a one-year suspension, barring Vukov from WTA events and credentials for violating the tour’s Code of Conduct through “abusive conduct” and fostering a “relationship of dependence.” Despite this, Rybakina rehired Vukov in January 2025, alongside Goran Ivanisevic, and has continued training with him between tournaments, as confirmed during her French Open press conference in May 2025. She has consistently defended him, stating, “He never mistreated me,” and expressed frustration with the WTA’s process, per *BBC Sport*.
Mouratoglou’s remarks highlight the complexity of Rybakina’s situation, noting the psychological impact evident in her 2025 season, marked by withdrawals from Indian Wells, Rome, and the Paris Olympics due to injuries and insomnia. “It’s hurt her game, her confidence,” he told *Sportskeeda*, pointing to her solitary demeanor and struggles, despite a Strasbourg title in May 2025. Fans on X echoed concerns, with @sebsharfam2 on March 26, 2025, listing Vukov’s alleged abuses, including “mental abuse” and pushing Rybakina to physical limits, causing illness. Rybakina’s decision to maintain ties, reportedly romantic, with Vukov—evidenced by shared hotel accommodations in Melbourne—has drawn scrutiny, with her mother pleading for him to stop making her cry, per *Sportskeeda*.[]
As Rybakina prepares for Wimbledon, facing Caroline Garcia in the first round on June 30, 2025, Mouratoglou’s stance underscores the tension between her agency and the reported toxicity, urging respect for her choices while acknowledging the visible strain on her performance and mental health.
