Congratulations as Elena Rybakina Appoints former Wimbledon champion as her coach from 2025 as She faces Jasmine Paolini in her first pool match on Saturday

 

Kazakhstan’s Elena Rybakina, currently ranked fifth in the world, has announced a significant change in her coaching staff by appointing former Wimbledon champion Goran Ivanisevic as her coach starting next season. This decision comes on the heels of a successful, yet tumultuous year, during which Rybakina clinched her first Grand Slam title at Wimbledon in 2022 with former coach Stefano Vukov by her side.

Ivanisevic, who won Wimbledon as a wildcard in 2001, brings a wealth of experience to Rybakina’s camp. His coaching accolades include a six-season tenure with Novak Djokovic, during which he contributed to Djokovic securing 12 of his 24 major titles. Ivanisevic also played a pivotal role in Marin Cilic’s US Open victory in 2014, further solidifying his reputation as a top-tier coach.

“I think he’s a great champion and he has so much experience,” Rybakina stated, expressing her enthusiasm about the

new partnership. “I’m really looking forward to starting.” This collaboration represents a new chapter for Rybakina, who had been with Vukov for an extended period before their split just prior to the recent US Open.

At 25 years old, Rybakina is eager to embrace this fresh start. “It’s something new for me. I’ve been with one coach for a long time. I want to learn,” she added, highlighting her desire for growth and development in her game.

Rybakina had a promising start to the season, claiming three titles in the first four months. However, her journey was marred by a surprising semi-final loss at Wimbledon to Barbora Krejcikova, the eventual champion. Since withdrawing before her second-round match at the US Open in August, Rybakina has been taking time to regroup before her upcoming competitions.

Looking ahead, Rybakina is set to compete in the WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia, an elite tournament featuring the top eight singles players of the season based on ranking points. She will face Italy’s Jasmine Paolini in her first pool match on Saturday, marking an important test for her new coaching arrangement with Ivanisevic.

As Rybakina embarks on this new journey, the tennis world watches closely to see how her partnership with Ivanisevic will shape her career and performance in the upcoming season.