Jelena Dokic's 'disgusting' reveal at Australian Open sparks wave of support

WARNING: The following article contains confronting content.

Jelena Dokic has received an outpouring of support from the sporting community after exposing a troll's horrific comment on social media during the Australian Open. The retired tennis player and Channel 9 commentator took to Instagram on Friday to highlight the 'disgusting' comment.

Dokic revealed that a troll had written in Serbian: "Now that the Australian Open is starting will Jelena Dokic try to kill herself like she does every year." The 39-year-old revealed last year that she'd almost taken her own life in April.

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"A new low. Just when you think online abuse and trolling can’t get any worse," Dokic wrote on Friday. "Almost 1 million people commit suicide in the world every year. That’s scary and so sad and then people like this disgusting person and a few others out there make fun of it!?

"How disgusting. They should ashamed of themselves. What kind of a person can write something like this and then even worse laugh about it? A bad person, that’s who. And of course an ignorant one.

"I am thinking of all of those who have committed suicide, those who have wanted to, those who have lost friends and loved ones to suicide and all those struggling. I am fighting for all of those who feel like they don’t have a voice, who don’t feel like they are being heard, for those who are struggling, for those who have struggled with suicidal thoughts, have lost loved ones and friends to suicide and I am fighting against ignorance, bad people, trolls, online abuse and disgusting human beings.

"So many are at their absolute breaking point so please be kind, caring and understanding. Sending so much love to all the good people out there and especially to all those struggling."

Dokic's post sparked a wave of anger and an outpouring of support from fans and commentators. Aussie swimming great Giaan Rooney commented: "This is horrific, but remember how many people adore you. You are doing an incredible job & we love watching you!"

Leisel Jones wrote: "I have no words nor will I waste my time or energy on this pond scum. You are so loved regardless of your mental health status. I wish I was there to give you a big hug but a virtual one will have to do. Love you!"

While Anthony Field from the Wiggles added: "Jelena, I am so sorry people think they can write such hurtful poison and it have no consequences. Jelena so many people love and admire you, it’s sad that these people try to attack a vulnerable person for their entertainment. You are loved and admired and have given so much to people already, leading by example."

Todd Woodbridge rocked by 'unacceptable' troll comment

In April last year, the former World No.4 revealed her battle with depression and how she almost took her own life, saying seeking professional help has "saved her life".

"The last six months have been tough," she wrote. "It's been constant crying everywhere. From hiding in the bathroom when at work, to wipe away my tears so that nobody sees it, to the unstoppable crying at home within my four walls has been unbearable.

"Constant feelings of sadness and pain are just not going away and my life has been shattered. April 28th. Will never forget the day, I just wanted the pain and the suffering to stop. Getting professional help saved my life.

“This is not easy to write but I have always been open, honest and vulnerable with you all and I deeply believe in the power of sharing our stories to help us get through things and to help each other."

The latest revelation from Dokic comes after Channel 9 colleague Todd Woodbridge revealed this week how a troll said it was "a shame" a recent heart attack didn't "end" him. Woodbridge shared a screenshot of the comment on Twitter and wrote: "Matt didn’t like my commentary alongside Jim Courier but this sort of behaviour is unacceptable and needs to be called out."

Readers seeking support and information can contact Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636, Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.

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