Australian Story: Leigh Sales with Jelena Dokic

After arriving in Australia as a refugee, Jelena Dokic shot to fame when she made the semi-finals of Wimbledon at just 17 years of age. But off the court, there were even greater challenges: from her struggles with mental health to surviving the abuse of her tennis coach father.   

In this special live recording of Australian Story, Dokic opens up to Leigh Sales about the details of her extraordinary life, from escaping war-torn Yugoslavia to becoming a Grand Slam finalist. She reflects on her past, from overcoming child abuse and domestic violence and explores the impact it had on her mental health. Despite the obstacles she faced, Jelena found a way to not only survive, but thrive – transforming her pain into power and purpose. She discovered her voice, built a successful career after tennis and ultimately found happiness. 

Hear Dokic speak with grace and honesty about her hard-won wisdom and the strength it takes to rise above hardship.

This event recorded on Thursday 18 September 2025 at The Edge, Federation Square. It was presented in partnership with the ABC.

The official bookseller was Readings.

Featured music is 'Different Days' by Chill Cole.

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