(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Davide Sanguinetti on Coaching Elena Rybakina and the Importance of a Sensitive Approach on the WTA Tour
Former Italian tennis star Davide Sanguinetti, now coaching Elena Rybakina, recently shared insights into the unique dynamics of coaching female players on the WTA Tour. His comments highlight how adapting to emotional sensitivity is a key part of successful coaching relationships in women’s tennis.
A Different Coaching Philosophy for Female Athletes
Speaking to Supertennis, Sanguinetti explained that his approach with WTA players is different compared to his past coaching roles.
“We definitely need to be more sensitive to girls, who have different ways of interacting. It was new to me; I’m learning and adapting,” said the 52-year-old coach.
Sanguinetti has returned to the WTA scene after many years. While he’s worked with top male players like Vincent Spadea and Brandon Nakashima, his last WTA coaching role was with Dinara Safina, who retired in 2011.
Coaching Changes After Vukov’s Ban
Rybakina’s team has undergone major transitions in recent months. Earlier this year, she parted ways with Goran Ivanisevic following her decision to rehire former coach Stefano Vukov, a move that led to tension within her team.
Vukov was later handed a one-year ban from coaching by the WTA after an internal investigation. Following that, Rybakina welcomed Sanguinetti to her coaching staff. Despite the controversy surrounding Vukov, Sanguinetti has maintained a professional stance.
“Vukov and Elena are close; he will always be there. Stefano and I talk a lot, we are on the same wavelength. It’s not a problem to have two coaches—it’s almost a trend now,” Sanguinetti explained earlier this year.
Rybakina’s Strong Performance on the Court
Despite off-court coaching challenges, Rybakina has been in top form, recently advancing to the semifinals at the Montreal Open. With Sanguinetti’s steady guidance and a balanced team dynamic, the 26-year-old Kazakh star continues to aim high on the WTA Tour.
