Elena Rybakina’s Coach Stefano Vukov Remains Banned by WTA

The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) is no stranger to controversy, but this latest saga involving Elena Rybakina’s coach, Stefano Vukov, has the tennis world buzzing, debating, and, quite frankly, rolling their eyes. Following an independent investigation into a potential breach of its Code of Conduct, the WTA has upheld its decision to ban Vukov from official tournament roles—a move that has left Rybakina “disappointed” and fans scratching their heads. But what’s really going on here? And why does this situation feel more like a reality TV drama than a sports disciplinary action?

The Ban That Won’t Go Away

Let’s rewind a little. Last year, Rybakina parted ways with Vukov before the US Open, a move that initially seemed like a standard professional shake-up. But, plot twist—she re-hired him soon after, only to find herself embroiled in controversy when the WTA announced his provisional suspension. Fast forward to now: despite a completed investigation, the WTA refuses to budge on its stance, keeping Vukov in coaching purgatory.

In a carefully worded statement (because, of course, transparency is overrated), the WTA declared:

“Following this process, the suspension remains in place. To protect the confidentiality and integrity of the investigation and its findings, the WTA will not provide further details.”

Translation? “We know something you don’t, and we’re not telling.”

Rybakina’s Response: Frustration, but Focus

Rybakina, the ever-composed Kazakh tennis star, has kept her reaction measured but unmistakably disappointed. After her win at the Qatar Open, she shared her thoughts, albeit cautiously:

“I’m just disappointed with the situation, and how the process went. I’m not going to comment much on that any more.”

She may be holding back publicly, but one can only imagine the frustration behind closed doors. After all, she’s been vocal before about her discontent with WTA decisions, and this time is no different.

The Unanswered Questions

The biggest issue with this whole debacle? The lack of clarity. The WTA’s refusal to disclose details has fueled rampant speculation. What exactly did Vukov do to warrant such a severe reaction? If it was something serious, why hasn’t Rybakina—or any other players—raised concerns before? And if it wasn’t serious, why uphold the ban?

This cloak-and-dagger approach isn’t sitting well with many in the tennis community. The vagueness of the charges has turned Vukov into some sort of tennis pariah without a trial by public opinion.

The Coaching Carousel: Enter Davide Sanguinetti

In the midst of this mess, Rybakina has had to navigate coaching changes. After a brief stint with Goran Ivanisevic—who parted ways with her post-Australian Open—she’s now working with Italian coach Davide Sanguinetti. But even he acknowledges that Vukov remains a presence in her camp:

“Vukov and Elena are close, he will always be there. Stefano and I talk a lot, we are on the same wavelength. It’s not a problem to have two coaches, it’s almost a trend now.”

A trend? Sure. But a banned coach lingering in the background like an unacknowledged ghost in the room? That’s a new one.

Is the WTA Setting a Dangerous Precedent?

This whole situation raises an uncomfortable question: Has the WTA overstepped? By not providing clear reasoning for the suspension, they’re opening the door to accusations of inconsistency, selective enforcement, and a lack of due process. In the #MeToo era of sports, where accountability and transparency are crucial, this approach feels like the exact opposite of what’s needed.

Moreover, by preventing Vukov from coaching at tournaments, they’re also indirectly punishing Rybakina, who clearly wants him in her corner. Where does the line get drawn between protecting players and making decisions for them?

The Fan Divide: Outrage vs. Indifference

Predictably, fans are split. Some are backing Rybakina, calling out the WTA’s handling of the matter as “shady” and “unfair.” Others believe there’s no smoke without fire and that Vukov’s ban must be justified. Then there’s the third camp—the ones who don’t particularly care about tennis politics but are here for the drama. (And let’s be honest, this is premium drama.)

What Happens Next?

The suspension remains, Rybakina keeps winning matches, and Vukov remains an enigma. The only certainty in all of this is that the WTA’s decision has added yet another layer of intrigue to an already compelling tennis season. Will the governing body finally reveal its reasoning? Will Rybakina take a stronger stance? Or will this all fade into the background as tennis moves on to its next scandal?

Whatever happens, one thing is clear: this is a story far from over. And whether you love the controversy or hate it, you can’t look away.