Goran Ivanisevic quits as Elena Rybakina’s coach 

Goran Ivanisevic quits as Elena Rybakina’s coach 

Goran Ivanisevic has stepped down as Elena Rybakina’s coach in the aftermath of her early exit from the Australian Open. The development comes amid a series of coaching changes in Rybakina’s camp, including the return of her former coach, Stefano Vukov.

Rybakina had announced on January 1 via social media that Vukov would be rejoining her team for the 2025 season. However, the decision to reinstate Vukov raised eyebrows, particularly after The Athletic exclusively reported on January 3 that the coach had been provisionally suspended by the WTA Tour. Vukov is under a confidential investigation for alleged violations of the tour’s Code of Conduct.

Despite the ongoing suspension, Vukov has consistently denied any wrongdoing and maintains that he has not breached the WTA’s code. Rybakina has publicly supported him, stating on multiple occasions that he has “never mistreated her.”

Ivanisevic’s departure signals a significant shift in Rybakina’s coaching setup as she navigates this period of change. His resignation leaves questions about the direction of Rybakina’s preparation as she moves forward in the 2025 season.

The WTA has yet to release any further updates regarding the investigation into Vukov.