Elena Rybakina defends coach Stefano Vukov after WTA suspension ahead of Australian Open

Elena Rybakina has defended her coach, Stefano Vukov, after the WTA suspended him ahead of the Australian Open. Vukov is under investigation for a breach of the tour's Code of Conduct and cannot obtain accreditation for the tournament. Rybakina recently re-hired Vukov, despite previous complaints about his conduct. She stated that he has never mistreated her and expressed disappointment over negative comments from others in the tennis community. While Vukov will not be present at the Australian Open, Goran Ivanisevic will coach Rybakina during the tournament. Rybakina aims for her second Grand Slam title in Melbourne.