Elena Rybakina Splits With Coach Vukov Before US Open

Rybakina hired Vukov as her coach in February 2019. The 25-year-old was still playing at ITF events when their partnership began. Rybakins enjoyed considerable success with Vukov in her team. Winning Wimbledon two years ago was their most outstanding achievement together, but she also made the Australian Open final, losing to Aryna Sabenka, and secured two WTA-1000 titles. The pair’s least successful Grand Slam was the US Open. Her best performances in New York were two third-round appearances.

Although the pair achieved great results together, the Croatian coach’s style often attracted criticism. While Rybakina is among the calmest players in tennis, Vukov is far more animated during matches. Some have argued his comments directed at the Kazakhstani were harmful and overly harsh. Rybakina has defended Vukov, saying he was trying to help her.

The former Wimbledon champion’s statement about the split was brief. After announcing they were no longer working together, Rybakina thanked Vukov for his on-court work and wished him well. She also thanked her fans for their continued support of her.

It is unclear whether Rybakina’s short statement indicates a rift behind the scenes. Hopefully, their parting was amicable after their success together. It will be interesting to observe who Rybakina chooses as her next coach. There have been several coaching changes on the WTA Tour this year. Jessica Pegula parted from David Witt in the season’s early months, while Elina Svitolina split with Raemon Sluiter before the Olympics. Rybakina will try not to let her decision to move on from Vukov affect her at the US Open.

Main Photo Credit: Eric Bolte – USA TODAY Sports