Tennis News Today: Aryna Sabalenka places her trust in Naomi Osaka with new move; Shocking detail emerges about Elena Rybakina's coach Stefano Vukov, and more

Aryna Sabalenka joined Naomi Osaka's sports agency, Evolve. Meanwhile, Novak Djokovic congratulated his opponent after a shock exit from the Brisbane International.

In other news, shocking details about Stefano Vukov came to light after his reunion with Elena Rybakina. Also, Sloane Stephens hit back at the criticism amid retirement rumors.

On that note, here are today's top tennis news:

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Aryna Sabalenka joins Naomi Osaka's sporting agency

Aryna Sabalenka has made a big move after moving away from IMG to join Naomi Osaka's agency. The Belarusian announced that she has joined Evolve, after working with IMG for the past five years.

Naomi Osaka announced her sporting agency, Evolve, in 2022. Aryna Sabalenka will join Nick Kyrgios as the latest high-profile player to work for the agency.

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Novak Djokovic reacts to losing early at the Brisbane International

Novak Djokovic suffered a shock defeat against Reilly Opelka at the Brisbane International. The Serbian faced the American for the first time and ended up losing in straight sets.

After his defeat, Djokovic congratulated his opponent on Instagram. The Serbian star posted a picture with Opelka and hailed the American as 'amazing'.

"Amazing tennis, Reilly. Absolutely deserved. Good luck."

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New update comes to light about Stefano Vukoc after his reunion with Elena Rybakina

Elena Rybakina announced that her former coach, Stefano Vukov, had rejoined her team before the Australian Open. Since that announcement, a new update has come to light about the situation of the Croatian coach.

According to the Athletic, a 'confidential and private' investigation has been launched against Vukov. The Croatian may not be granted accreditation to join Rybakina on practice courts during the Australian Open 2025.

"The WTA can confirm that Stefano Vukov is currently under a provisional suspension pending an independent investigation into a potential breach of the WTA Code of Conduct," the statement provided to the Athletic by a WTA spokesperson reads.

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Sloane Stephens hits back at critics amid retirement talks

Sloane Stephens made an honest claim about her poor form. The American has not won a match since Wimbledon 2024, which sparked some retirement rumours.

Stephens defended her form and decision to continue playing tennis and mentioned that she is still getting paid significantly to take to the court. The former World No. 3 made an honest admission and hinted at another year on the tour.

"It’s all about what the athlete can handle, right? ‘You should retire?’ I’m like, ‘If these people are still paying me, I’m not going.’ I think people don’t realize, if someone was paying you a lot of money, you wouldn’t quit your job. You wouldn’t leave your job," Stephens added.