Elena Rybakina’s Coaching Changes
Elena Rybakina has reestablished her relationship with coach Stefano Vukov, leading to her decision to end her collaboration with Davide Sanguinetti. This recent shake-up in Rybakina’s coaching staff follows a series of adjustments she made over the past few months.
Background of Coaching Changes
The Kazakhstani tennis player initially let go of Vukov after the conclusion of the 2024 tennis season, a timeframe coinciding with Vukov facing suspension by the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) a short time later.
In the interim, Rybakina sought to bring Vukov back onboard but was unable to do so due to his suspension. She briefly attempted a partnership with Goran Ivanisevic, which was short-lived. Consequently, Rybakina hired Sanguinetti to support her during Vukov’s absence, with expectations that Sanguinetti would act as a temporary replacement.
Upon Vukov’s suspension being lifted, he resumed his role within Rybakina’s team, resulting in her exiting from the arrangement with Sanguinetti, as reported by the Italian outlet Spazio Tennis.
Performance at the US Open
This coaching shift was confirmed after the 2025 US Open, where Rybakina fell to fellow Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova in the fourth round, ending her run in a tightly contested match that concluded 6-4, 5-7, 6-2.
Media Reflections and Future Plans
During her time in New York, Rybakina addressed the media’s inquiries regarding Vukov’s reentry into her coaching team. She reflected on her ongoing struggles with insomnia, highlighting that 2023 was particularly difficult due to a hectic tournament schedule and numerous late-night matches before the implementation of new WTA rules limiting court time after 11 PM.
“Last year was challenging,” Rybakina remarked. “I had to manage a busy schedule, and insomnia plagued me throughout the year, but I’m relieved to say that I’m feeling much better now. With the support of my team and Vukov’s guidance, we have made significant progress.”
Expressing satisfaction with her current situation, Rybakina acknowledged the positive impact of having Vukov back in her corner, commending their effective communication and teamwork. Following her earlier-than-anticipated exit from the US Open, Rybakina is now looking forward to rejuvenating before entering the Asian leg of the tour, where her upcoming commitment is set for the China Open in Beijing on September 24th, giving her a chance to regroup and prepare for the next challenges ahead.
