Spain’s Paula Badosa cruised into the round of 16 at the WTA Dubai tournament, setting up a showdown with Kazakhstan’s Elena Rybakina. But while Badosa focuses on her next match, Rybakina finds herself entangled in a storm of controversy involving her former coach, Stefano Vukov.
Badosa Makes a Statement on Court
Badosa wasted no time in dispatching Belgium’s Elise Mertens, winning 6-2, 6-1 in a commanding performance. The Spaniard, currently ranked ninth in the WTA standings, dominated her round of 32 match, showing no signs of struggle.
It was the first time Badosa and Mertens had faced each other, and despite Mertens’ ranking at number 31, she struggled to match Badosa’s intensity. The Spanish player’s powerful baseline game and aggressive shot-making overwhelmed her Belgian opponent.
Now, Badosa’s focus shifts to the next round, where a tougher challenge awaits in the form of Elena Rybakina, the world number seven. A victory there would be another statement of intent as she eyes a deep run in the tournament.
Rybakina’s Off-Court Drama Overshadows Her Game
Rybakina, the 2022 Wimbledon champion, is no stranger to controversy. She was at the center of debate when she won her Grand Slam title while playing under the flag of Kazakhstan despite being Russian-born, a situation amplified by the ATP’s ban on Russian players that year.
Now, she finds herself in an even more personal controversy. Her former coach, Stefano Vukov, has been suspended following multiple allegations of harassment, including claims that he bombarded Rybakina with over a hundred calls and messages after being dismissed from her team.
The WTA launched an investigation into Vukov after concerns for Rybakina’s safety were raised by her team. He has since been banned from coaching for a year and ordered to undergo conduct training.
The Relationship Rumors That Complicate the Case
The Athletic recently uncovered new details that have added an unexpected twist to the scandal.
- Vukov reportedly stayed in the same hotel room as Rybakina during the Australian Open, fueling speculation about a possible romantic relationship.
- While neither party has publicly addressed these rumors, the optics of the situation have raised further questions about the nature of their partnership.
- Some insiders suggest that the personal dynamics between Rybakina and Vukov may have played a role in the escalating conflict.
With the WTA’s investigation ongoing, this revelation has only deepened the complexity of an already troubling situation.
What’s Next for Rybakina in Dubai?
On the court, Rybakina has shown resilience, defeating Japan’s Moyuka Uchijima 6-3, 6-3 in her round of 32 match. The win sets up a must-watch clash against Badosa, but the looming controversy could be a distraction.
For now, Rybakina’s focus will be on maintaining composure as she navigates the scrutiny surrounding her name. With Badosa in top form, she will need to be at her best to avoid an early exit in Dubai.
