sports
‘I’m extremely lucky to be here’: Jelena Dokic on childhood dreams and talking tennis
Australia’s former world No 4 player and now respected pundit speaks about highs and lows in her life, and the importance of family on success
TL;DR
- Jelena Dokic endured significant physical and psychological abuse from her father, alongside depression and an eating disorder.
- Despite her struggles, Dokic achieved notable success in tennis, including winning the 1999 Italian Open and reaching a career-high ranking of No 4.
- Dokic has spoken openly about her experiences in books and a documentary, emphasizing her survival and growth from adversity.
- She is now a respected tennis interviewer and pundit, and a campaigner for victims of domestic abuse.
- Dokic believes that family support is crucial for success in sports and that abusive parenting does not create champions.
- She finds happiness and a life-saving freedom in owning her story and being authentic.
- Dokic is open to the possibility of adoption in the future, wanting to provide love and support to children who have faced difficult times.