Elena Rybakina received backlash from tennis legend Pam Shriver for opting not to take a photo with WTA CEO Portia Archer after claiming victory at the WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia. Rybakina clinched a significant title by defeating world No.1 Aryna Sabalenka in straight sets, earning a £4 million prize.
The decision to snub Archer during the traditional champion photoshoot was believed to be a protest against the suspension of her coach, Stefano Vukov, for breaching WTA’s rules. Despite past concerns about Vukov’s behavior towards Rybakina, the coach was reinstated after successfully appealing the suspension earlier in the year.
Rybakina expressed satisfaction at having Vukov back on her coaching team, emphasizing that they never had any issues and he never mistreated her. However, her actions at the tournament drew criticism from Shriver, who highlighted the importance of standing up against abuse in sports.
In a post-tournament press conference, Rybakina refrained from elaborating on her decision not to stand with Archer but criticized the WTA for inadequate communication regarding the Vukov situation. She focused on her remarkable journey to victory, describing it as an unexpected and challenging experience.
Meanwhile, Sabalenka, despite a successful season with major achievements, including winning the US Open and reaching finals in other Grand Slam events, expressed disappointment at falling short in the Finals. Sabalenka acknowledged Rybakina’s superior performance and credited her opponent for a dominant display on the court.