‘Didn’t See This One Coming’ – Boris Becker and American Icon Chris Evert Drop First Reactions to Elena Rybakina’s Bold Coaching
Elena Rybakina’s recent coaching change has drawn significant attention in the tennis world, with notable figures like Boris Becker and Chris Evert expressing their reactions. Rybakina, the 2022 Wimbledon champion, ended her partnership with coach Stefano Vukov shortly before the 2024 US Open.
Their five-year collaboration saw her rise to the top ranks, but Vukov’s sometimes intense approach raised concerns among fans and tennis insiders about its potential toll on Rybakina’s well-being. This led to calls for her to find a coach who would better support her mental health and personal growth as an athlete.
The choice to part ways came after a period of back-and-forth in public comments, with Rybakina previously defending Vukov but later deciding that it was time for a fresh start. In response, Becker and Evert commented on the difficulty but necessity of such changes in a player’s career, especially when balancing the demands of high-level competition and personal well-being. Since the split, Rybakina has chosen former Croatian player Lovro Zovko as a temporary coach, indicating she is still considering long-term coaching options while preparing for events like the WTA Finals.
Her decision highlights an ongoing theme in sports—players often reassess their coaching relationships, especially when seeking sustainable progress. Rybakina’s path forward with Zovko may also provide a glimpse into her evolving approach to both training and competition as she aims to maintain her place among the top players.
