"Still don’t understand"; "So many unanswered things"- Fans confused by "drama" surrounding Elena Rybakina's defense of coach Stefano Vukov

Fans were puzzled as Elena Rybakina defended her coach, Stefano Vukov, amidst controversy surrounding their split and reconciliation. The Kazakh dismissed rumors of mistreatment, expressing dissatisfaction with how the media has portrayed their situation.

Rybakina's decision to reunite with Vukov has sparked controversy following reports revealing the latter's provisional suspension by the WTA. The suspension came after an ongoing investigation into potential breaches of the tour’s Code of Conduct related to his coaching style.

Despite the investigation, Rybakina publicly defended Vukov, denying any mistreatment during their time together and expressing her discontent with the media coverage and comments from tour insiders.

During a press conference after Kazakhstan's loss to Poland at the United Cup in Sydney, Rybakina explained her decision to reintroduce Vukov to the team.

"Stefano is rejoining the team because I know the person for six years, and there is a lot of things we can do outside of the court too. Of course I'm not really happy with the situation. I'm not happy with the comments which I see, especially from the people who are on the tour. It's active coaches, commentators. I don't think that it's fair," Rybakina said.

Rybakina's comments were posted on X and many fans have raised questions about the transparency of the situation, while others have urged respect for her perspective.

"I wish they asked more questions to be honest … So many unanswered things like how long Goran stays, what role will Stefano have, did she not tell Goran before this article…?" one fan asked.

"The player herself has confirmed she was never abused by Vukov but fans and pundits with no verifiable evidence want her to have been abused so bad. Why can't you just take her word for it? The obsession is insane," another fan wrote.

"So much drama. So Vukov will not be 2nd coach?" another fan asked.

"Still don’t understand the rejoining thing," yet another fan confessed.

Elena Rybakina expressed deep respect for Vukov, acknowledging his crucial role in her journey from being ranked 200 to achieving major success. Adding another layer to the debate, some fans believe her immense talent makes her a top player regardless of her coach.

"Elena, you would’ve been a top player with any coach due to your immense talent… not everyone has that natural talent. Also, this answers nothing about Goran’s role and if he will even remain as her coach. I hope he does but it’s not looking good," one fan wrote.

"Any decent coach will get Elena to top 10. She has the talent," another fan wrote.

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Elena Rybakina expressed satisfaction with her collaboration with new coach Goran Ivanisevic

Elena Rybakina at the 2025 United Cup: Source: Getty

Elena Rybakina parted ways with coach Stefano Vukov in August 2024, ahead of the US Open, following a turbulent season. Many fans and pundits voiced relief, feeling Rybakina had been in the wrong hands during that period.

In the offseason, Rybakina hired former Novak Djokovic coach Goran Ivanisevic, and their collaboration began at the United Cup, where she expressed satisfaction with their work together.

"I mean, I'm working with Goran. I'm happy the way we work now for the couple of weeks," Rybakina said about the partnership in the aforementioned press conference.

World No. 6 Elena Rybakina will now shift her focus to preparing for the Australian Open after Kazakhstan was eliminated by Poland in the 2025 United Cup semifinals. Rybakina won her first three matches at the event but was defeated by Iga Swiatek in the semifinals.