Jelena Dokic retired from professional tennis in 2014 and currently works as a Television presenter
Jelena Dokic has opened up about the struggles she had to face as a youngster in the Tennis circuit. In an emotional statement, Dokic revealed how she had been physically abused by her family for ‘failing’ to win a Tennis match.
The former WTA No.4 also shared a graphic image of herself playing at the 2000 US Open with visible bruises on her knees and legs which were a result of the torture that was meted out to her.
Dokic currently works as a television presenter and commentator, covering various tournaments across the globe. Due to the treatment, she received during her younger days, she has struggled with anxiety and depression for a long time.
Last year, she revealed that she nearly took her own life in the midst of mental health struggles. The 40-year-old Australian uploaded a lengthy Instagram post describing how she felt in April accompanied by a photo of herself in tears.
In her post, Dokic stated that she had been struggling with anxiety and depression for six months and those feelings culminated in her attempting to take her own life. However, she has since sought professional help and she believes that she is on the road to recovery.
Let us take a look at some of the reactions from fans on social media.
“This is so extremely sad. You just never know someone’s store or journey. We look at these professional athletes and feel like they have it all, but have no clue what they’re dealing with behind closed doors”, wrote a fan.
“What she endured is horrendous and that she radiates love regardless is amazing. She’s an icon”, tweeted another fan
“I implore everyone that hasn’t to read Jelena book unbreakable. It gives great insights to the horrors that happened to Jelena”, read a tweet.
“Jesus Christ. That’s utterly appalling”, stated another fan, echoing similar sentiments.
Another fan wrote: “Her dad was a horrible control freak. As I remember, he was finally banned from attending tennis matches. Basically he ruined her very promising career.”
More Tennis news
Follow our dedicated Tennis page for instant Tennis news and updates