Elena Rybakina has strongly responded to comments made by former Wimbledon champion Pam Shriver, as the ongoing controversy surrounding her suspended coach, Stefano Vukov, intensifies.
The allegations against Stefano Vukov
Stefano Vukov, Rybakina’s coach, is currently under investigation by the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) after being provisionally banned over allegations of violating the WTA's code of conduct.
These allegations have drawn significant attention, leading to public scrutiny of the relationship between Rybakina and Vukov. Despite this, Rybakina has firmly denied the accusations, defending her coach’s integrity and expressing her frustration with the situation.
Rybakina defends her coach
Speaking at a pre-tournament press conference, Rybakina addressed the matter, stating that she disagreed with the actions of the WTA regarding Vukov. "I don't want to speak much about what's going to be next. But definitely, I don't agree with a lot of things the WTA does in the sense of my relationship with Stefano," Rybakina remarked.
She added that there had been no complaints from her regarding Vukov's behaviour, emphasizing, “I have never made any complaints or any of these things. I always said that he never mistreated me.”
Rybakina made it clear that she preferred to focus on her matches rather than delve deeper into the issue. Despite the investigation, Vukov has not been interviewed by the WTA but has denied the allegations, stating through a statement to The Athletic: "Definitely never abused anyone."
Pam Shriver's Criticism of Vukov
Pam Shriver, a former American tennis player and five-time Wimbledon doubles champion, has raised concerns about Vukov in the past. She is part of the team supporting Croatian player Donna Vekic. While Rybakina acknowledged Shriver's opinion, she made it clear that she felt it was unfair for Shriver to comment on her situation without having a personal connection with her.
"Well, I get that one of coaches, Pam Shriver, I don't know her personally. She never came to me personally, never talked with me, but I know her story," Rybakina said. "Since she doesn't know me, I don't know her, I don't think it's fair to make any comments like that."
Rybakina also mentioned that Shriver's position as an active coach, commentator, and journalist made it more difficult for her to accept such remarks.
Rybakina's coaching changes
In light of the ongoing controversy, Rybakina has added renowned Croatian coach Goran Ivanisevic to her team. However, she has also confirmed that Vukov will continue in some capacity for the Australian Open, although the exact details of his role remain unclear.
As Rybakina prepares for the Australian Open, she remains focused on her game and intends to leave the ongoing investigation to unfold without letting it distract her.