Controversial Coach’s Actions Spark WTA Investigation into Elite Player’s Safety

NEW YORK — In the lead-up to the U.S. Open in August 2024, a series of alarming events unfolded involving tennis star Elena Rybakina and her then-coach Stefano Vukov, prompting an investigation by the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA). Reports indicate that Vukov engaged in harassing behavior toward Rybakina, leading her team to raise concerns about her safety.

According to sources, Rybakina had dismissed Vukov as her coach, but he persistently inundated her with text messages and phone calls, totaling over 100 attempts to contact her while she was staying at a Manhattan hotel. The distressing developments culminated in her support team alerting WTA officials due to fears for Rybakina’s wellbeing, especially given Vukov’s previous conduct during their professional relationship.

The WTA subsequently opened an independent investigation into Vukov. They imposed a no-contact directive and barred him from obtaining credentials to attend WTA events while they assessed the situation. On January 31, 2025, WTA chief executive Portia Archer informed Vukov and Rybakina of the conclusions, after which Vukov received a one-year suspension from coaching.

The WTA’s investigation summarized Vukov’s violations of their code of conduct. Notably, he was found to have engaged in abusive conduct, compromising Rybakina’s mental and emotional well-being. Archer’s confidential report highlighted instances of Vukov allegedly ridiculing Rybakina during practice sessions, with statements like, “You would still be in Russia picking potatoes without me.”

Rybakina, a 25-year-old Wimbledon champion, acknowledged the unhealthy aspects of their relationship and even described how Vukov’s behavior contributed to her struggles with insomnia and physical illness leading up to the U.S. Open.

In a letter, Archer noted the evidence suggesting that Vukov’s harassment was sustained and disregarded Rybakina’s requests for space. “We need a safe environment for everyone,” Archer stated, underlining the seriousness of the allegations against Vukov. Conversely, Vukov has firmly denied any wrongdoing and expressed intent to appeal the suspension.

Since this investigation, Rybakina’s relationship with Vukov has been double-edged; she initially defended him, highlighting the positive impact on her career, while their connection also drew scrutiny for underlying issues of dependency.

Adding to the complexity, Rybakina, currently working under temporary coach Davide Sanguinetti, reported mixed feelings about the investigation process. After a match on February 18, 2025, she stated, “It’s very disappointing the way it’s been handled, just the outcome.”

The governing body plans to uphold the integrity of its investigation and will not be sharing further details while continuing to monitor the situation closely.