Elena Rybakina’s Discontent at the WTA Finals
In a striking display of discontent, Elena Rybakina declined to take a photo with Portia Archer, the CEO of the WTA, during the ceremony of the 2025 WTA Finals. This action signals her dissatisfaction with the organization, particularly relating to the recent controversies surrounding her long-time coach, Stefano Vukov.
Coaching Changes and Controversies
Rybakina, who captured the Wimbledon title in 2022, saw her professional relationship with Vukov take a sudden and unexpected turn shortly before the 2024 US Open, when she announced their split without disclosing the reasons behind it. Following their separation, she appointed tennis legend Goran Ivanisevic as her new coach, generating excitement due to his impressive career both as a player and as part of Novak Djokovic’s coaching staff.
However, this partnership was short-lived, as Rybakina shocked fans by announcing that Vukov would be rejoining her team to work alongside Ivanisevic starting in 2025. This announcement coincided with the WTA’s need to address Vukov’s provisional suspension amid serious allegations of mistreating Rybakina during their working relationship, including reports of verbal abuse and inappropriate behavior on the court.
Despite the troubling allegations, Rybakina has publicly defended Vukov, asserting that he never mistreated her and maintaining that their relationship extended beyond professional boundaries, as they are also reportedly involved romantically. After successfully appealing his suspension in August, Vukov returned to accompany Rybakina at various tournaments, reaffirming his position as her coach.
Performance at the WTA Finals
At the WTA Finals, Rybakina demonstrated her prowess by clinching her second-most significant title, besting Aryna Sabalenka with a score of 6-3, 7-6. Her flawless run throughout the tournament underscored her status as one of the sport’s top competitors. Nevertheless, the remnants of her turbulent experience with Vukov lingered during the event, as evidenced by her pointed refusal to engage with Archer, who had been in charge during Vukov’s suspension—a decision that likely left the atmosphere around Archer and Sabalenka awkward.
Milestones in Women’s Tennis
2025 proved to be a milestone year for women’s tennis, featuring four different Grand Slam champions, including notable figures such as Madison Keys and Coco Gauff. Young talents like 18-year-old Mirra Andreeva emerged with remarkable performances, winning two prestigious 1000-level titles, while Victoria Mboko surprised everyone by taking the title at the Canadian Open. The women’s game continues to show a competitive landscape, contrasting sharply with the men’s circuit dominated by players like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner.
