Elena Rybakina’s Coach Stefano Vukov Appeals One-Year WTA Suspension Over Alleged Abusive Conduct

Elena Rybakina's former coach Stefano Vukov is challenging a one-year suspension imposed by the WTA for abusive conduct. The ban, which bars him from WTA events, follows an investigation that detailed inappropriate behavior and emotional manipulation. Vukov has turned to private arbitration, while his professional and personal relationship with Rybakina continues to raise controversy.

Stefano Vukov Appeals One-Year WTA Ban Following Investigation Into Abusive Conduct

June 2, 2025 – Miami Gardens, FL – Stefano Vukov, the suspended coach of 2022 Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina, has officially appealed his one-year ban from the WTA Tour. The ban, handed down in February, prevents Vukov from obtaining credentials or accessing venues at women’s tennis events and Grand Slams.

Two individuals familiar with the matter confirmed that Vukov’s appeal is currently being handled through private arbitration, as mandated by WTA rules. The WTA has declined to comment on the situation, citing the confidentiality of arbitration proceedings. Vukov himself has not issued a public statement.

The suspension was issued after the WTA concluded a months-long investigation into Vukov’s conduct, following Rybakina's decision to dismiss him just before the 2024 US Open. Allegations from her team included inappropriate behavior after the dismissal, such as lingering around her hotel and repeatedly calling and messaging her in an attempt to be rehired.

In a confidential letter summarizing the findings, WTA CEO Steve Simon cited Vukov’s “abuse of authority and abusive conduct.” The letter revealed that Vukov insulted Rybakina with demeaning language, including calling her “stupid” and “retarded,” and telling her she would still be “picking potatoes in Russia” without his guidance. Investigators concluded that Vukov had created a “relationship of dependence” that led Rybakina to believe she could not succeed without him.

Despite these findings, Rybakina reportedly reconciled with Vukov during the investigation and advocated for his return to her coaching team. The Professional Tennis Players Association initially supported her efforts but withdrew after reviewing the WTA's findings.

Although he remains banned from official WTA activities, Vukov has continued to work informally with Rybakina. At the 2025 French Open, she acknowledged that they train together outside of tournament grounds, which does not violate WTA jurisdiction. Vukov has also been exploring commercial representation roles for Rybakina, according to sources close to him.

Rybakina briefly worked with Goran Ivanišević during Vukov’s suspension but parted ways with him after the Australian Open. She is now coached by Davide Sanguinetti, who has publicly acknowledged Vukov's continuing presence in Rybakina’s professional life.

Recently, Rybakina claimed her first title in over a year at Strasbourg and reached the fourth round at Roland Garros, where she lost in three sets to defending champion Iga Świątek. In her post-match press conference, she expressed gratitude to Vukov and described their ongoing collaboration outside official tournaments.

The outcome of Vukov’s arbitration could determine whether he will be allowed to resume formal coaching duties on the WTA Tour.