Surprising Scene in Riyadh: Rybakina Refuses to Pose with WTA CEO After Her Victory

An awkward moment during the WTA Finals trophy ceremony. While Aryna Sabalenka smiled alongside CEO Portia Archer, the newly crowned champion Elena Rybakina refused to step closer. A gesture that, of course, made the rounds on social media.

A rather unusual scene occurred during the WTA Finals trophy presentation. As per tradition, the two finalists were invited to pose alongside the WTA CEO, Portia Archer.

However, the freshly crowned Elena Rybakina refused to participate in this photo session, preferring to remain in the background, while Aryna Sabalenka posed next to the WTA executive (see posts below).

On social media, several users interpreted this gesture as a sign of protest from Rybakina, linked to the suspension of her coach Stefano Vukov.

The latter had been suspended from the tour earlier in the season for "inappropriate behavior," before having his sanction lifted during the summer.