More than meets the eye? Elena Rybakina's former Stefano Vukov reportedly removed from WTA coaches list and banned from tour

Elena Rybakina's former coach Stefano Vukov has reportedly been removed from the WTA coaches list and banned from the tour which could signify the reasoning behind their sudden split.

This development came after Rybakina had to withdraw from the 2024 US Open just before her second round match. It has not been an easy road for Rybakina. She has missed eight tournaments in all this season and even recently on returning in Cincinnati lost early to Leylah Fernandez.

At the 2024 US Open, she was seeded fourth and saw off Destanee Alava. However she then withdrew from the tournament due to an undisclosed injury. A move that puzzled many as to whether there is more than meets the eye surrounding it.

“Unfortunately, I have to withdraw from my match today due to my injuries,” said Rybakina in withdrawing.

“I did not want to finish the last Grand Slam of the year this way but I have to listen to my body, and I hope I can close out the remainder of the year strong.

“Thank you to all the fans who have and continue to support me, and I wish the remaining players good luck.”

Prominent tennis commentator and podcast host, Craig Shapiro reported that there could be a reason. That being that Stefano Vukov who recently split with Rybakina as her long-time coach has been banned from the tour reportedly.

Shapiro said that Vukov was removed from the official WTA coaches list and this allegedly indicates a ban with some in the comments of his post who have access to the list saying that they have seen the same. Supposedly anyone who is not coaching a player even is on the list.

So it only indicates one of two routes, either he has been banned or has retired from coaching. Either way, it has not been the greatest 18 months for Rybakina and she will look to rebuild seemingly with Vukov nowhere near it.