Former Australian Tennis Star Jelena Dokic Says She Came Close To Suicide

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Dokic, who sprang to prominence at Wimbledon in 1999 when she stunned world number one Martina Hingis in the first round, said she has been suffering with mental illness and nearly resorted to suicide on April 28.

But she struggled for years to escape the influence of her volatile father Damir, tumbling down the rankings into the 600s during her well-documented split from him.

The family rift followed a series of bizarre episodes including Damir being banned from the All England Club at Wimbledon and at one point claiming his daughter had been kidnapped.

Dokic, who has worked as a television commentator since retirement, is now encouraging others struggling with their mental health to seek assistance.

"Getting professional help saved my life," she said in her Instagram message.

"I am writing this because I know I am not the only one struggling. Just know that you are not alone. 

"I am not going to say that I am doing great now but I am definitely on the road to recovery."

She concluded: "I will be back stronger than ever."

                

(This story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)