Although Rybakina looked set to take the 2025 season by storm alongside new coach Goran Ivanisevic, the Russian-born Kazakh endured a difficult 24 hours after the Hologic WTA tour confirmed that former coach Stefano Vukov was serving a suspension provisional and was under investigation. for a potential violation of the Code of Conduct.
Rybakina, who worked with Vukov from 2019 to the 2024 US Open, was looking to reinstate Vukov to her coaching staff, but will not be able to secure accreditation for the troubled coach for the upcoming Open. Australia due to provisional suspension.
Read more: “Where there is smoke, there is fire”: Vandeweghe supports WTA investigation into Vukov
The 2022 Wimbledon champion nevertheless arrived at the Ken Rosewall Arena with Ivanisevic and got off to a good start against Swiatek, who seemed frustrated by the fast-paced court conditions. Leading Rybakina 5-3 in the first set, the former world number one leveled the match at five games apiece and managed to win two missed set points in the next game to finally secure the initiative with a break. equality.
While Rybakina’s level had fallen below its first-set high, Swiatek scored a crucial break in the seventh game of the second set en route to a 5-3 lead. Serving under pressure after a love hold from Rybakina, she saved a break point with a thrilling rally and again outplayed her match point, playing impeccable defense to cross the finish line.
