Elina Svitolina is working with a former ATP Tour player rather than her usual coach at the 2026 WTA Finals, and she has spoken about the collaboration.

World No 6 Svitolina is being coached by her Ukrainian compatriot Sergiy Stakhovsky at the season-ending championships in Indian Wells.

Stakhovsky, who won four ATP Tour titles and reached a career-high ranking of world No 31, retired from tennis in 2022.

Svitolina’s long-time coach Andrew Bettles is not with her in Indian Wells as his wife is expecting a baby.

Speaking at her press conference ahead of the WTA Finals, Svitolina explained how Stakhovsky is helping her.

“We have trained a lot together over the years. When I return to Ukraine, I constantly practise with him,” said the 32-year-old.

“He taught me a lot about my forehand game, helped me improve my shots at the net, because before that was never my strong point.

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“Now, at least I can say that sometimes I can play a good forehand game (smiles). I think it’s a very important part of the game, and that kind of work has helped me become a better tennis player.

“Of course, his approach to training is a little different from what I’m used to with Andy Bettles. We’ve been working with Andy for many years and continue to work together.

“Now, we’re just adding a few new elements. I really like how Sergiy and Andy have been working together in the last few weeks. They coordinate the training schedule and what we’re working on on the court.

“Besides, Sergiy is my close friend. We have known each other for a very long time. I understand his way of thinking well and try to adapt his ideas to my own game. And Andy also helps us in this.

“Given Andy’s situation, whose wife is expecting a baby, it would be very difficult to bring a completely new person to the team who doesn’t know me well. So I’m very glad that Sergiy is now there to help me. Thanks to him, everything goes much easier.”

Svitolina will face Mirra Andreeva in her opening match at the WTA Finals, and she is also in a group with Karolina Muchova and Aryna Sabalenka.