WTA Reinstates Banned Coach Stefano Vukov; Rejoins With Elena Rybakina: Report
Stefano Vukov is eligible to return to WTA events after his suspension was lifted. Rybakina, who split with Vukov before the 2024 U.S. Open, has publicly supported him.
The WTA Tour has confirmed that Stefano Vukov, coach of 2022 Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina, is eligible to return to its events following the lifting of his suspension for a potential breach of the organization's code of conduct.
Rybakina split with Vukov last August, just days ahead of the 2024 U.S. Open, before appointing Goran Ivanisevic in November.
Vukov was provisionally suspended in January while the WTA investigated an alleged safeguarding violation. In February, the tour announced that the investigation had concluded but that his ban would remain in place. At the time, no public timeline was given for his return.
On Friday, the WTA confirmed that Vukov will once again be allowed credentials, granting him access to player areas and practice courts at its tournaments.
'The WTA is fully committed to providing a safe and respectful environment for all athletes and other participants, as set out in our WTA Code of Conduct and Safeguarding Code," the organization said in a statement.
'Any sanctions issued following a breach of these safeguarding rules are carefully considered and are subject to appeal before an independent tribunal. While case details remain confidential, we can confirm that Mr. Vukov is eligible to receive credentials at WTA events."
Rybakina, currently ranked No. 10 in the world, has maintained public support for Vukov throughout the process. Ahead of the 2023 U.S. Open, she announced they had parted ways, but later confirmed before this year's Australian Open that he had rejoined her team.
She has repeatedly stated that Vukov never mistreated her during their time working together.
Rybakina recently reached the semifinals of the National Bank Open in Montreal, where she was defeated by Canadian teenager Victoria Mboko, who went on to win the title.
The Kazakh star will now look to continue her form with Vukov officially back on her coaching bench as the season enters its decisive phase.
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August 10, 2025, 16:58 IST
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