In a surprising move that has left many tennis enthusiasts baffled, Kazakhstani tennis star Elena Rybakina announced her decision to rehire controversial coach Stefano Vukov on January 1. This announcement came just four months after the duo ended their partnership in late August, prior to the 2024 US Open. Despite Vukov's significant contributions to Rybakina's rise to World No. 3 and her maiden Grand Slam title, his behavior during matches often drew criticism. The decision has sparked widespread debate and raised questions about the future dynamics within Rybakina's coaching team.

A Look into the Reunion Details

On the first day of 2025, Elena Rybakina made headlines by revealing that she had brought back Stefano Vukov as part of her coaching team. The two initially collaborated from 2019 to 2024, during which time Rybakina achieved remarkable success, including winning her first major title. However, Vukov's presence was not without controversy; his frequent outbursts and aggressive demeanor at courtside were a source of contention among fans and experts alike. Despite these concerns, Rybakina's unexpected decision to rehire him has left many questioning her motives and the potential impact on her new head coach, Goran Ivanisevic, who joined her team in November 2024.

Just before the official announcement, Russian journalist Sofya Tartakova reported that Vukov intended to support Rybakina at the 2025 Australian Open. In a conversation on December 30, Vukov clarified that their relationship remained strong and dismissed rumors that he had been banned by the WTA following their earlier split. Interestingly, Tartakova initially noted that Vukov would not be an official member of the team, a detail that has now changed.

Currently, Rybakina is competing in the 2025 United Cup, where she has led Kazakhstan to the semifinals after defeating defending champion Germany in the quarterfinals. The team will face either Poland or Great Britain in the next round.

The reunion between Rybakina and Vukov has ignited discussions about the balance between personal loyalty and professional growth. While some fans express concern over the potential disruption this move might cause, others believe that Rybakina's decision reflects a deep trust in someone who has played a pivotal role in her career. Ultimately, only time will tell how this partnership evolves and whether it will lead to continued success for the talented tennis player.