Elena Rybakina parts ways with coach days before US Open

Elena Rybakina, a prominent tennis player and former Wimbledon champion, faced significant challenges leading up to the 2024 U.S. Open. Just three days before the tournament, she made the difficult decision to terminate her coaching relationship with Stefano Vukov, who had been with her for five years. This decision stemmed from a troubling pattern of verbal insults and psychological pressure that Rybakina experienced during their time together. Despite their close relationship and the success they achieved, including reaching the Australian Open final in 2023, Rybakina's parents played a crucial role in her decision to part ways with Vukov. They recognized the negative impact of his coaching style on her mental health and encouraged her to seek a more supportive environment. Rybakina's withdrawal from the U.S. Open due to a back injury added to the complexity of her situation. After winning her first-round match, the injury forced her to step back from the competition, further complicating her emotional and psychological state. As Rybakina navigates this challenging period, she is reportedly working to overcome the psychological issues stemming from her previous coaching experience. The tennis community is watching closely to see how she will move forward in her career and whether Vukov will continue to coach other players.