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Elena Rybakina announced her split with long-time coach Stefano Vukov just days before her opening match at the 2024 US Open. The Kazakh expressed her gratitude to Vukov for his efforts during their partnership and wished him well for his future endeavors.
Vukov took on the role of Rybakina's coach in February 2019, when the World No. 4 was ranked just inside the top 200. Their partnership paid dividends, as Vukov guided the Kazakh to her maiden Grand Slam title at the 2022 Wimbledon Championships, as well as two WTA 1000 titles and eight career titles overall.
Despite their on-court success, Stefano Vukov often faced scrutiny for his confrontational conduct during Rybakina's matches, famously copping criticism from the tennis community for his "aggressive" and "toxic" behavior during her semifinal clash at the 2023 Australian Open.
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However, the Kazakh consistently defended their partnership, contending that the tennis community had drawn a "bad conclusion" about Vukov's behavior. Speaking to Canal+ during the 2023 WTA Finals, the 25-year-old explained that his seemingly belligerent behavior provided her with energy and helped her release her emotions.
"This is I think a bad conclusion from the internet like he’s overreacting. I think he’s just trying to give me a lot of energy. We’re completely different personalities. I am calm. So sometimes I need to get emotions out and he’s trying just to help. I think the people try to find something which is not there," she said at the time.
Nevertheless, just days before her opening match at the US Open, Elena Rybakina announced her decision to part ways with Stefano Vukov, expressing her appreciation for his on-court efforts.
"Hello Everyone, After 5 years, Stefano and I are no longer working together. I thank him for his work on-court and wish him all the best for the future. Thank you for all your support," Rybakina posted on her Instagram story.
Elena Rybakina to take on Destanee Aiava in 2024 US Open 1R
Elena Rybakina's preparations for the 2024 US Open were less than ideal, as she was forced to withdraw from the Canadian Open due to her lingering illness issues. Although she made a return to the court at the Cincinnati Open, her campaign was short-lived, ending in a 3-6, 7-6 (3), 6-4 loss to Leylah Fernandez in her opening match.
The World No. 4 will aim to produce a stronger performance against qualifier Destanee Aiava in the first round of the New York Major. If Rybakina triumphs over Aiava, she will face the winner of the match between Zheng Saisai and Jessika Ponchet.
The 25-year-old will likely face Caroline Garcia or Caroline Wozniacki in the third round, with Anna Kalinskaya being her potential fourth-round opponent. Drawn in the same half as Iga Swiatek, Elena Rybakina will possibly face the top seed in a blockbuster semifinal clash if she successfully navigates her way through her draw.
