Last week, the problematic master-apprenticeship between Stefano Vukov and Rybakina revealed one of the sport's most shocking stories in recent years.

The Athletic's reporters Charlie Ekershell and Matthew Futman have published a detailed, in-depth and rigorous report on the events of the past six months, based on multiple sources. The information comes from trusted sources close to Rybakina, as well as testimony from other observers. Reports revealed that Vukov was a controlling, pathological, and abusive person, and that his "abuse" of Rybakina caused her to feel physically and mentally unwell several times in the past year.

"It seems to me that he completely brainwashed Elena." In a recent interview with the German sports magazine Kicker, Barbara Scheater said, "You can see how he treats her and how he talks to her. The situation escalated during the 2024 US Open, with Rybakina's team and family trying to get him to leave. We know that Rybakina went through a lot of ups and downs mentally, most likely because of him. Obviously he mentally abused her, so I think he was right to be banned from the WTA. ”

Despite the WTA's response by banning Vukov from coaching and banning him from being certified for any WTA event, with a reported one-year ban, Vukov's presence still appears to have had a profound impact on Rybakina.

Rybakina's new coach is Davide Sanguinetti, a close friend of Vukov's, while reports that Vukov is still in contact with Rybakina suggest that the incident is ongoing and that the situation is rather complex and disturbing.

Despite the condemnation of Vukov by many important figures in the sport and the fact that he has been banned from the WTA, Rybakina has repeatedly defended the Croatian, saying she is "disappointed" with the way things were handled. "Because she's been brainwashed." Shet explained when asked why Rybakina openly supported Vukov.

The Rybakina's close friend also revealed, "Ivanisevic and I have been talking about this for a long time. The problem, he said, is that they have a personal relationship. Vukov wanted to infiltrate and regain his place in the team. This is clearly a disaster. He had to be completely removed from her life because of everything he did. I heard those words from the dugout in Australia and it was unacceptable. That's why I think it's very good that the WTA protects the players and takes measures accordingly. ”

Shetter believes one factor that could exacerbate the problem is the fear that other WTA players may have when facing Vukkov. "The problem is that a lot of players don't dare to say anything because they're afraid of personal consequences." She explained.

"For example, I used to be terribly scared of Dokic's father. I'll probably never say anything because I think he's going to kill me. Dokic's situation may be a little different from Rybakina's, as she's also experienced physical violence, but by the time you're in your twenties, you may not fully understand what's going on. Maybe you didn't think it was so tragic at the time, and you didn't realize it until later. But I think there have been a number of players who have revealed to the WTA about Rybakina and Vukov. It is important to guarantee anonymity because they are really scared. ”

Rybakina is expected to compete in Indian Wells next month, after winning six straight matches at the event, winning the event in 2023 but missed the chance to defend her title last year due to illness. Vukov will not be in her dugout, as his suspension is still in effect, but Vukov's good friend and loyal supporter Sanginetti will be present.

Much of what an external sports organization can do has already been done at this critical time of uneasiness and stress. An important role in the tennis world will be to continue to support Rybakina, to keep an eye on developments and to hope for the best possible future for this outstanding but currently very fragile young player.(Source: Tennis Home Author: Spark)