Rybakina hits back at criticism surrounding coach Vukov: "Unlike people that are making these comments, he has great knowledge about me as a person and as an athlete"

Elena Rybakina spoke out against criticism against her coach Vukov who caught some criticism after his 'aggressive' coaching style that involves quite a bit of shouting.

Stefanos Vukov caught some criticism on social media for the way he coaches Rybakina as his attitude on the stands was first called into question by former player Laura Robson. His behaviour was also called into question by former player Pam Shriver who urged Rybakina to part ways with him and find a coach who respects her more.

The player pushed back against some of those comments sticking by her coach:

"After a great Australian Open, I have seen some disturbing comments on social media about the behaviour of my coach Stefano Vukov. I want to clarify any misinterpretations. Stefano has believed in me for many years, before anyone else did."

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She added:

"We plotted a strategy together in how I could achieve great things and his method shows in my Grand Slam success so far. He is a passionate coach, with a lot of knowledge about tennis. Unlike people that are making these comments, he has great knowledge about me as a person and as an athlete."

The social media post also said:

"Those who know me well, will know that I would never accept a coach that didn’t respect me and all our hard work. I may be quiet on court and in general, but inside me is a competitive athlete that wants to achieve great things and Stefano has helped me greatly in this way. So please disregard any fake news to the contrary."