Jelena Dokic reveals she’s back to her 2016 size – and admits she used to ‘hide’ in men’s clothes because of her low self-esteem

Jelena Dokic reveals she's back to her 2016 size - and admits she used to 'hide' in men's clothes because of her low self-esteem

As someone who has had the privilege of following Jelena Dokic’s journey, I am nothing short of inspired by her resilience and courage. Her recent Instagram post showcasing her transformation from 2016 to 2024 is a testament to her strength and determination. The fact that she can stand tall and proud in the same size clothing, years apart, speaks volumes about the power of self-confidence.


Jelena Dokic has revealed she’s returned to her 2016 weight in a powerful new Instagram post.

The 41-year-old uploaded images of herself from 2016 and 2024 to social media, stating that she has the same body size in both photographs.)

However she admitted the major difference between the photos came down to ‘self-confidence’.

The 2016 photo showed Dokic in dark clothing while sporting a tight smile.

Instead, the 2024 image depicted the ex-tennis star dressed in a vibrant red outfit and sporting a wide smile.

She admitted that at the time she would ‘hide’ in men’s clothing because of crippling self-doubt.

‘I always dressed in black. Fully black or dark grey. I wore men’s clothing. Men’s shirts.’ 

I never felt confident enough to don elegant attire, whether it be a vibrant color, a dress, or high-heeled shoes, which are typically associated with women.

Jelena Dokic reveals she's back to her 2016 size - and admits she used to 'hide' in men's clothes because of her low self-esteem

‘Imagine having such low self esteem and self worth that you wear men’s clothing.’

Instead of this, you could say: She concluded her message by inspiring her followers, urging them to never conceal themselves, always stand confidently, feel proud, and carry their heads with dignity.

It comes just weeks after Dokic opened up about the domestic abuse she suffered as a young tennis player in a new documentary.

In the upcoming trailer for the movie “Unbreakable,” Dokic speaks about the intense stress she experienced because her father, Damir, frequently punished her with physical abuse when she didn’t win.

Jelena was born in Yugoslavia and her family moved to Australia when she was 11 years old. 

Back in the day, I was absolutely captivated as I watched my idol advance to the Wimbledon quarterfinals in ’99 and the semifinals the very next year, 2000. Then, in 2002, my heart raced as she battled her way to the French Open quarterfinals. Truly unforgettable moments for a devoted fan like me!

In this situation, she is saying that she is 16 years old, and at that time, she was ranked number 1 like Martina Hingis. If she had lost, the results would have been disastrous for her, as she shares this reflection while watching recordings of herself playing.

The next day, after my loss, I could sense the impending events… I began to feel profoundly shattered within.

Every single inch of my skin bore bruises. At just seventeen, his behavior turned me into a figure widely despised.

In the documentary, three-time Grand Slam tennis champion Lindsay Davenport reminisces about witnessing Jelena’s struggles as well.

‘Some other players had noticed bruising,’ Davenport says.

Jelena Dokic reveals she's back to her 2016 size - and admits she used to 'hide' in men's clothes because of her low self-esteem

American tennis great Pam Shriver remarks, ‘Looking back, it’s astonishing to see all she achieved!’

Australian journalist Richard Hinds adds: ‘Early on, there were whispers of strange occurrences. Inquiries were made, but they seemed to encounter an insurmountable obstacle or dead end.’

Simultaneously, prominent tennis journalist Christopher Clarey laments his decision not to delve deeper into the rumors.

As a diligent observer, I find myself pondering whether I might’ve delved more profoundly to discern the truth. It seems many of us were in a similar position.

For quite some time now, Dokic has been candid about battling depression, enduring cyberbullying, facing body-shaming comments, as well as experiencing domestic violence during her professional journey.

In April, she shared pictures from when she was 17, showing bruises on her legs, on Instagram, expressing both sadness and anger over the multitude of women who are victims of abuse.

She shared that her shins were swollen, discolored, and bleeding due to numerous kicks from pointed shoes throughout the night, as a result of losing a game.

The photos were captured over two weeks afterwards, and I was still sporting significant bruises. At that time, I was seventeen years old.

Jelena Dokic reveals she's back to her 2016 size - and admits she used to 'hide' in men's clothes because of her low self-esteem

‘To this day I still have sensitive and bumpy shins from this beating.

‘Every hurt leaves a mark on me, and I carry those scars. Not every woman and girl manages to make it through; some still struggle.’

‘And that’s the sad reality.’

She added that she wanted to speak for sufferers who don’t have the same platform as her.

‘I was speaking at a domestic and family violence event today and I was sad,’ she continued.

Feeling deeply saddened and frustrated, knowing that there are countless women worldwide who are currently enduring struggles far greater than any I have faced.

Weekly, one Australian woman tragically loses her life due to domestic violence. Shockingly, approximately one out of every four women in Australia will encounter domestic violence during their lifetime.

‘The figures are even worse around the world.

Jelena Dokic reveals she's back to her 2016 size - and admits she used to 'hide' in men's clothes because of her low self-esteem

The less we discuss the matter, the more we tend to avoid dealing with it, the more we end up neglecting women and girls.

‘For those reading this that might be experiencing abuse or domestic violence just know I get you.

As a fervent admirer, I want to assure you that I recognize the fear and apprehension you’re grappling with. Yet, it’s essential for me to emphasize that within you lies an extraordinary reservoir of strength and bravery. Please remember, none of this is your fault.

If you’re able, kindly lend a hand or offer comfort to those who are struggling. Avoid distancing yourself from them and never leave them behind.

Speaking as someone who’s walked that path before, left feeling forsaken and terrified beyond words, I implore you not to walk away. Your support is crucial for women and girls who are in dire need of it.

Should you, or anyone close to you, experience sexual assault, domestic, or family violence, reach out to 1800RESPECT at 1800 737 732, or access their website at 1800respect.org.au. In critical situations, dial 000 for emergency assistance.

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2024-10-21 00:04

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