Stefano Vukov’s Ban and Appeal
Stefano Vukov, who trained 2022 Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina, has launched an appeal against his one-year ban from coaching within the women’s tennis circuit. This ban was imposed following an investigation by the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA).
Details of the Investigation
According to insiders, Vukov is seeking to have the ban lifted through private arbitration, a mandatory process outlined by WTA regulations. Currently, he is barred from obtaining credentials for WTA events, severely limiting his ability to engage with players and attend tournaments.
These restrictions include major tournaments such as the Australian Open, where he is prohibited from entering practice courts or being present in the player’s box.
Conduct and Consequences
The WTA began its investigation into Vukov’s conduct last autumn, just before his provisional suspension. His dismissal from Rybakina’s team occurred shortly before the U.S. Open, following reports of troubling behavior. Rybakina subsequently experienced a concerning episode in which team members expressed fears for her safety due to Vukov’s attempts to restore their professional relationship.
The WTA’s official report condemned Vukov’s actions, citing “abuse of authority and abusive conduct.” Specific allegations included derogatory remarks made towards Rybakina, indicating a problematic dependency on his part.
Changing Dynamics
Despite the ban, it appears that Rybakina has reconciled with Vukov, evolving their relationship beyond professional boundaries into romance. This shift has elicited mixed responses from tennis circles and organizations, including the Professional Tennis Players Association, which initially supported her decision to reinstate Vukov. However, their support diminished after gaining insight into the specifics of the investigation.
Rybakina’s Coaching Changes
In the meantime, Rybakina enlisted Goran Ivanisevic as her coach; however, their partnership faced challenges and ended with his resignation following a defeat at the Australian Open. She has since turned to Davide Sanguinetti for guidance—this shift appears to coincide with her recovery and competitive resurgence, as she has since won a title in Strasbourg and made an impressive run at the French Open.
Rybakina clarified that she and Vukov are allowed to train together between tournaments, permitting him to remain involved in her preparation without contravening the terms of his suspension. Reports suggest that Vukov is also looking to expand his role in managing Rybakina’s commercial interests.
Ongoing Developments
The situation remains fluid as Rybakina continues her comeback while Vukov’s appeal against the WTA’s ban progresses through the arbitration process. Many in the tennis community are closely monitoring the outcome.
