Elena Rybakina's abrupt reunion with controversial coach Stefano Vukov draws 5-word reaction from tennis insider

A prominent tennis insider and journalist has reacted to Elena Rybakina reuniting with coach Stefano Vukov. They parted ways in the buildup to the 2024 US Open, sparking controversial rumors about the Croatian coach.

On Wednesday, January 1, 2025, Rybakina took to her Instagram story and announced that Vukov would join her coaching setup for the new tennis season. The Kazakhstani had earlier announced that Vukov would be turning up to cheer for her at the Australian Open, 2025's first Grand Slam.

"Hello everyone, I am excited to announce that Stefano will be joining the team for the 2025 season. Thank you all for the support 🙌 And wishing you a great 2025 ❤️" she wrote.

Renowned tennis insider and journalist Jose Morgado, surprised at Rybakina's decision to collaborate with Vukov again, tweeted:

"Wow. A quick plot twist."

Vukov's initial split with Rybakina led to several unsubstantiated claims. The Croatian coach's relationship with the Kazakhstani came under scrutiny, and there were rumors that his behavior toward her was crude and at times, "abusive." Reports suggested that the Women's Tennis Association had banned him.

However, during a pre-tournament press conference ahead of the 2024 WTA Finals, Rybakina dismissed the rumors and said the split was a purely professional decision. Following the reappointment, American former WTA star Pam Shriver chimed in with a concerning take.

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"Sad situation" - Pam Shriver on Stefano Vukov rejoining Elena Rybakina's team

Stefano Vukov (L) and Elena Rybakina (R) (Source: Getty)

Pam Shriver, a former No. 3 in singles and No. 1 in doubles, kept up the speculation about Stefano Vukov and Elena Rybakina's relationship being "abusive." She penned a stinging post on X to deliver her thoughts on Vukov becoming a part of Rybakina's coaching setup again:

"It’s time for our entire sport to finally stand up to known abuse and cult-like manipulations of players. This is a very sad situation and my prayers are with Elena Rybakina."

However, the American former tennis star faced backlash from several fans, who suggested that there was no truth to her claims.

Meanwhile, Rybakina is participating in the 2025 United Cup, where she has won three singles matches and one doubles contest, steering Kazakhstan into the semifinals.