Rybakina turned her back on the head of the WTA. He refused the official photo, shortly after receiving the trophy at the Tournament of Champions. It pissed off the fans
After the clear victory against Aryana Sabalenka at the 2025 Tournament of Champions, Elena Rybakina refused to appear in the official photo with Portia Archer, CEO of the WTA.
Elena Rybakina refused to pose with the WTA CEO Photo/Twitter
While Sabalenka agreed to pose with the trophy and the WTA representative, Rybakina remained aloof, avoiding visible contact and ignoring an invitation to join the photo ceremony. Official footage shows Archer beckoning her over, but the Riyadh champion remained unmoved, sending a clear message without words.
Basically, the moment highlighted the tension between Rybakina and the WTA leadership, attracting the attention of the entire tennis world. Elena Rybakina's gesture immediately sparked speculation of tensions between the players and WTA management, led by Portia Archer.
International media suggest that the grievances are linked to the suspension of her coach, Stefano Vukov, a decision taken by the WTA after alleged inappropriate behavior by the Croatian, particularly towards Aryna Sabalenka.
Fans, divided into two camps
The moment quickly went viral on social media, dividing fans into two camps: some praise Rybakina for the courage to protest, while others consider the gesture disrespectful.
Moreover, some voices suggested that the player may have been influenced by her team, as she was seen giving a clear look to the staff immediately after refusing the official photo.
