Elena Rybakina’s coach Goran Ivanisevic won’t stand for her ‘dysfunctional relationship’ with Stefano Vukov, says Serena Williams’ ex-coach
Elena Rybakina’s coach, Goran Ivanisevic, is reportedly taking a strong stance against what has been described as a “dysfunctional relationship” between Rybakina and her long-time coach, Stefano Vukov. According to Serena Williams’ former coach, the tension between Rybakina and Vukov has raised concerns within her camp, prompting Ivanisevic to intervene.
Vukov has been a central figure in Rybakina’s coaching team for years, guiding her to significant success, including her 2022 Wimbledon victory. However, there have been growing concerns about the nature of their professional dynamic, with some suggesting that it may be detrimental to Rybakina’s progress and overall well-being. The “dysfunctional” label implies that their working relationship might be strained by miscommunication, disagreements, or unhealthy interactions during training and competition.
Ivanisevic, a former Wimbledon champion and current coach of Novak Djokovic, is known for his no-nonsense approach and strong personality. His involvement with Rybakina suggests that he is keen to ensure that she has the right support system in place as she continues to compete at the highest level. Ivanisevic’s reputed intolerance for toxic dynamics within a team suggests that he may be pushing for changes to better Rybakina’s environment and optimize her performance.
Serena Williams’ ex-coach, who commented on the situation, implied that this type of situation is not uncommon in the competitive world of professional tennis, where the relationships between players and coaches can become complicated. However, given Rybakina’s potential and her need for a healthy, functional support team, Ivanisevic’s decision to step in could be a turning point for the young star.
For now, it remains to be seen whether Rybakina will make changes to her coaching setup or if Vukov will remain part of her team, but Ivanisevic’s involvement indicates that Rybakina’s camp is taking steps to ensure her continued growth and success in the sport.
