Elena Rybakina Opens Up About Struggling with Psychological Issues Due to Former Coach’s ‘Pressure, Insults, and Abusive Words’
Elena Rybakina, one of tennis’ brightest rising stars, has recently opened up about her struggles with psychological issues stemming from her past coaching experience. The 24-year-old Kazakhstani tennis player, known for her powerful serve and composed demeanor on the court, shared intimate details of her battle with mental health after enduring immense pressure and verbal abuse from a former coach.
In a candid interview, Rybakina revealed how the pressure placed upon her by her previous coach began to take a toll on her mental well-being. Describing the relationship as “toxic,” she spoke of the insults, harsh criticisms, and derogatory language that she was subjected to during training sessions. The mental strain of constant negativity and unrealistic expectations led Rybakina to experience anxiety and doubt, affecting both her personal life and performance on the court.
“I’ve never really spoken about it before, but it was a really tough period,” Rybakina confessed. “The pressure and the insults were overwhelming. It was not just about tennis anymore; it was about my self-worth. I started questioning everything, even my love for the game.”
The former Wimbledon champion detailed how her coach’s verbal abuse often left her feeling isolated, with little support or understanding from those around her. The constant barrage of “bad words” made her doubt her abilities and caused a significant dip in her confidence. As one of the most promising players on the WTA Tour, Rybakina had been expected to deliver consistently, but the mental toll was more challenging than any physical obstacle she had ever faced.
Rybakina’s decision to step away from that coaching situation has since allowed her to rediscover her passion for tennis, though the scars left by that time remain with her. “It took time to rebuild myself,” she said. “I had to surround myself with people who believed in me, not just as a player, but as a person.”
She also acknowledged the importance of mental health in professional sports, particularly in tennis, where players often face intense scrutiny and isolation. “Mental health is something that is rarely talked about in our sport. We focus so much on physical fitness, but mental strength is just as important, if not more,” Rybakina emphasized. “I hope my story can help others who are struggling silently.”
Since parting ways with her former coach, Rybakina has made great strides in both her game and her mental well-being. She has surrounded herself with a new team that emphasizes a healthy balance between performance and personal growth. By focusing on self-care, therapy, and positive affirmations, Rybakina has started to feel like herself again, both on and off the court.
Her candidness about her psychological struggles has sparked an important conversation about the pressures faced by athletes, especially female athletes, in high-stakes environments. Mental health in sports is slowly gaining more attention, but many athletes, like Rybakina, continue to face stigmas about speaking openly about their battles.
Rybakina’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that success is not solely defined by titles or rankings but also by resilience and the ability to prioritize one’s well-being. As she continues to compete at the highest level, she hopes to be an advocate for mental health awareness, breaking down the barriers that prevent athletes from seeking help when they need it most.
Her fans, who have supported her through her rise to stardom, now have an even greater appreciation for the strength it took to overcome these challenges. Elena Rybakina’s story is one of perseverance, growth, and ultimately, triumph over adversity.
