Elena Rybakina faced backlash from tennis legend Pam Shriver for opting not to take a photo with WTA CEO Portia Archer after winning the WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia and claiming a prize of £4 million. Rybakina’s decision not to pose with Archer, amid posing with other officials, was believed to be a protest against her coach Stefano Vukov’s earlier suspension by the WTA for code of conduct violations. Vukov, who has coached Rybakina to success, had his suspension overturned in August after an appeal process.
Responding to the criticism, Rybakina expressed her happiness at having Vukov back as her coach, denying any mistreatment. Shriver criticized Rybakina’s actions, highlighting the importance of standing against abuse in sports. Rybakina, in her post-match press conference, criticized the WTA for their handling of the Vukov situation, emphasizing the need for better communication.
Despite the victory, Rybakina remained tight-lipped on her decision not to stand with Archer, focusing on her remarkable week and the tough final battle. Meanwhile, Aryna Sabalenka, who had a successful season winning the US Open and finishing as a runner-up in other Grand Slam events, expressed disappointment at her loss in the Finals. Sabalenka acknowledged Rybakina’s superior performance and expressed emotional sentiments about her own performance.