As the first of the four Grand Slams in the tennis calendar, the Australian Open is the event that sets the tone for the sport each year. Exciting both on and off the courts, it’s where tennis comes alive and where players old and new show what they’re capable of.
And this year, former top 10 player Jelena Dokic – now a commentator with the Nine Network’s Australian Open team – will be no different as the stars get ready to shine.
“How he keeps winning is amazing.”
(Image: Getty)So, who is Jelena keen to see in action this year? It’s a long list.
“In the men’s draw, there’s Novak Djokovic, who can make it 11 Open titles – how he keeps winning is amazing,” Jelena, 40, tells TV WEEK of the 36-year-old Serbian great.
“Also, Jannik Sinner [the 22-year-old Italian star] is getting close to winning a Slam. He’s exciting to watch, plus has shown he can beat the best. Then there’s [20-year-old Spaniard] Carlos Alcaraz. He’s exciting, graceful and, most importantly, fiercely competitive.”
In the women’s draw, Jelena says world No 1 Iga Swiatek of Poland is going to be a powerhouse player again, but to watch out for American Coco Gauff.
“Her playing style is exciting, she’s won a Grand Slam at just 19, and I love how she deals with pressure, combined with her physicality and fitness,” Jelena says.
“Then, of course, there are all the Aussies, led by Ajla Tomljanovic.”
For Jelena, it all means another exciting Open that she’s looking forward to being a part of from the commentary box.
“I never thought I’d find this much enjoyment in the sport again after playing,” she says. “I love it!”
