Rybakina Taps Ivanisevic as New Coach, Eyes Further Grand Slam Success

In an initiative set to enhance her performance, World No. 5 Elena Rybakina has revealed she will collaborate with Goran Ivanisevic as her coach beginning next season. Ivanisevic, a past Wimbledon champion and experienced mentor behind some of Novak Djokovic's notable victories, brings his extensive expertise to Rybakina's team. This collaboration marks a change in Rybakina’s career approach as she aims to expand on her Grand Slam achievements and ascend to the highest levels of women’s tennis.

Rybakina's choice to hire Ivanisevic, a man who made his mark in Wimbledon history in 2001 with a wildcard victory, is no ordinary coaching hire. During Ivanisevic's six-year period with Novak Djokovic, he helped lead the Serbian star to 12 Grand Slam victories, playing a key role in Djokovic's 24-major record. His tactical insight and knowledge of competing in high-pressure matches will likely be invaluable to Rybakina as she seeks to build on her 2022 Wimbledon Grand Slam win and create a lasting legacy.

Reflecting on her new coach, Rybakina expressed her enthusiasm, saying, "He’s a great champion and brings an extraordinary amount of experience." She added, "I’m genuinely looking forward to what we can achieve together." At 25, the rising star from Kazakhstan is indicating not just a desire for more titles but a broader commitment to developing her game, a goal clearly demonstrated by her split with long-time coach Stefano Vukov just before the 2023 US Open.

This change is a crucial one for Rybakina, who has consistently performed strongly on tour this year. She began the season impressively by securing three titles in four months, appearing poised for further achievements at Wimbledon until her semi-final loss to Barbora Krejcikova. Ivanisevic's expertise, especially in Grand Slam situations, could provide her with the extra tactical advantage needed to excel in the later stages of these tournaments.

The Croatian coach is known for his work with some of the most talented players in the sport. In addition to Djokovic, Ivanisevic significantly contributed to Marin Cilic’s career by guiding him to his breakout victory at the 2014 US Open. His coaching style focuses on enhancing mental resilience and strategic flexibility, traits that could further refine Rybakina's naturally powerful game. His appointment reflects a wider trend in women's tennis, where top players are increasingly turning to seasoned coaches with high-level expertise.

Even though her partnership with Ivanisevic will officially start in 2025, Rybakina is currently focused on the season-ending WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia. Here, she will be among the top eight players of the year competing for the title. She is set to play against Italy's Jasmine Paolini in her opening pool match on Saturday. Rybakina is eager to finish the season positively, aiming to leverage her consistent performances and maintain her status among the sport's elite.