The celebratory mood at the WTA Finals was shattered by an awkward trophy presentation that has left the tennis community deeply divided. New champion Elena Rybakina pointedly refused to participate in traditional photographs with WTA CEO Portia Archer, creating a tense atmosphere following her significant victory over world number one Aryna Sabalenka.
Victory Overshadowed by Protest
Elena Rybakina secured one of the biggest wins of her career, defeating top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka 6-3, 7-6 (7-0) to claim her first WTA Finals trophy. The 2022 Wimbledon champion displayed exceptional form throughout the match, but the triumph quickly turned contentious during the award ceremony.
When WTA CEO Portia Archer joined Sabalenka for the customary victory photos, Rybakina deliberately positioned herself on the opposite side of the court. Tournament officials attempted to persuade her to join the group, but the champion waved them away and completely avoided the photographic opportunity.
Roots of the Conflict
The tension stems from the WTA's decision to suspend Rybakina's former coach, Stefano Vukov, for breaches of the conduct code. The ban, implemented in 2024 after an investigation, remains in effect at the start of the 2025 season.
While Rybakina has consistently defended Vukov, stating he "never mistreated" her during their professional relationship, the confidential investigation summary presented a different picture. The report alleged Vukov had ridiculed and abused Rybakina during coaching sessions, even calling her "stupid" and throwing balls at her.
More seriously, the investigation suggested the "mental abuse" pushed Rybakina "to or beyond her limits", resulting in physical symptoms. Despite these findings, Rybakina has maintained her support for Vukov, and the pair have resumed working together.
Tennis World Reacts
The incident sparked immediate reaction across the tennis community. American tennis legend and commentator Pam Shriver expressed strong criticism on social media platform X.
"Imagine winning more prize money in one tournament than the entire Original Nine over their collective careers, then dissing WTA CEO because the CEO has tried to ensure stronger safeguards in your sports … it's hard to imagine," Shriver posted.
Fans expressed conflicting views on the controversy. Some questioned Rybakina's decision to accept tournament prize money while refusing to participate in official ceremonies. "She can play in the tournament, and take their money, but not stand for a picture? If she's protesting, then don't play in the tournament," one fan commented.
Others supported Rybakina's stance, arguing she had every right to protest what she perceives as unfair treatment. "She banned her coach. I think it was a reasonable response. I thought she handled herself well," another supporter noted.
Rybakina declined to comment directly on the photo incident but hinted at ongoing frustration with the investigation process. "Well, I think we're all doing our job, and we had the opportunity to have conversations, but in the end, they never happened," she told reporters. "So we're all doing our job, and I think we're going to keep it this way."
For Sabalenka, the awkward conclusion marred an otherwise outstanding season that included a US Open victory, runner-up finishes at both the Australian Open and French Open, and a semi-final appearance at Wimbledon. The Belarusian became emotional after the match, acknowledging Rybakina's superior performance. "I am getting old, I am getting really sensitive. So many things to be proud of. Not the best performance, she was definitely the better player. She literally smashed me out of the court," Sabalenka said.
