Former Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina has officially parted ways with coach Goran Ivanisevic after a brief stint lasting less than two months. The split comes after the return of her former coach, Stefano Vukov, despite his ongoing suspension by the WTA Tour. Ivanisevic, who had previously coached Novak Djokovic for six years, joined the Kazakhstani tennis star’s team during the off-season in a move seen as a fresh start for the Kazakhstani player. However, the partnership ended after her early exit from the Australian Open.
Ivanisevic’s departure follows a period of uncertainty surrounding Rybakina’s coaching situation. The 2001 Wimbledon champion confirmed the split on social media on January 21, stating, “After our trial period that finished with the Australian Open, I wish Elena and her team the best of luck moving forward.”
Rybakina’s 2025 season has already seen significant developments. Ivanisevic’s appointment was expected to mark a new chapter after she decided to part ways with long-time mentor Stefano Vukov just days before the 2024 US Open. However, earlier this month, she reinstated Vukov to her team despite the WTA Tour’s provisional suspension of the coach due to an ongoing investigation for a potential Code of Conduct breach. The WTA’s ruling prevents Vukov from obtaining tournament credentials while under investigation.
Vukov, who led Rybakina to the 2022 Wimbledon title, has denied any wrongdoing, stating that he has “never abused anyone.” Rybakina has also defended him, insisting that he has never mistreated her. However, the controversy surrounding his return appears to have played a key role in Ivanisevic’s decision to leave the coaching role.
Rybakina’s Australian Open campaign ended in the fourth round with a 6-3 1-6 6-3 defeat to Madison Keys. Throughout the tournament, she struggled with a back injury, and her performance was below her usual standards. The uncertainty surrounding her coaching staff, particularly with Vukov’s situation, raised questions about whether Ivanisevic would remain part of her team. Sources close to the situation suggested that he was blindsided by Rybakina’s announcement of Vukov’s return and struggled with the ongoing turmoil.
Reports suggest that Rybakina was determined to have Vukov present, even considering boycotting the Australian Open if he could not attend. Despite his suspension, Vukov was spotted courtside during her matches at the December World Tennis League exhibition in Abu Dhabi and later traveled to Melbourne. However, he was barred from coaching at the Australian Open.
The WTA has yet to announce a final decision regarding Vukov’s suspension. Rumors indicate that a ruling may not come until after the conclusion of the Australian Open. Meanwhile, Rybakina must reassess her coaching team as she moves forward in the 2025 season.
This marks Ivanisevic’s second high-profile coaching split in recent months. He ended his six-year tenure with Novak Djokovic in March 2024. During his time with Djokovic, he helped guide the Serbian star to 12 Grand Slam titles. His brief time with Rybakina was expected to bring stability and consistency to her career, but the complexities surrounding Vukov’s return ultimately led to an early exit.
Main Photo Credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports
