Stefano Vukov, former coach of Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina, is once again eligible to receive credentials at WTA tournaments after the women’s tennis governing body lifted his provisional suspension. The suspension had been imposed due to a potential breach of the WTA’s code of conduct, pending an investigation.
Idman.biz, citing Reuters, reports that Rybakina ended her five-year partnership with Vukov last August, shortly before the US Open, later appointing Goran Ivanisevic for the 2025 season, a brief and unproductive collaboration. Despite the suspension, Rybakina rehired Vukov while working with Ivanisevic, raising concerns within the tennis community.
The WTA emphasized its commitment to a safe and respectful environment and stated that any sanctions are subject to appeal before an independent tribunal. Details of the case remain confidential, and the WTA has not disclosed who filed the complaint.
Vukov denies any wrongdoing, telling The Athletic he "never abused anyone." Rybakina, currently ranked world number 10, has also maintained that Vukov did not mistreat her and expressed discomfort with public speculation about the case.
With his suspension lifted, Vukov is now permitted to participate in WTA events again, though the investigation’s full outcome remains undisclosed.
Idman.biz
