Jelena Dokic has spoken candidly after false rumours about her relationship with partner Yane Veselinov spread across social media, using the moment to deliver a broader message about kindness, honesty and the real impact of online speculation.
Rather than focusing on gossip, the former tennis star says she wants the conversation to shift toward empathy.
A post that sparked the wrong conclusions
The speculation began after Jelena shared a reflective message on Instagram about removing herself from people and situations that no longer brought her peace.
In the post, she wrote that she was no longer angry or disappointed, but had simply reached a point where she wanted to surround herself with positivity, safety and happiness.
Although the message was intended as a general reflection on toxic relationships and negative influences, some followers quickly assumed it was referring to her relationship with Yane Veselinov, prompting rumours that the couple had separated.
Setting the record straight
Not long after the speculation gained momentum, Jelena addressed the rumours directly.
With a touch of humour, she pointed out how quickly online stories can snowball.
“One day we’re engaged, the next we’ve broken up, then we’re married, then apparently we’ve broken up again,” she joked.
Jelena also made it clear that she has always been open about her personal life and would never hide major life events from those who support her.
“If and when there’s ever something to say, I’ll say it,” she explained, reinforcing that honesty has always been one of her core values.
More than gossip
Appearing on Today Extra, host Richard Wilkins asked Jelena about the constant attention surrounding both her appearance and her relationship.
Rather than expressing frustration, she admitted she has almost come to expect it.
She said social media has made it easier than ever for rumours to spread, but believes public figures also have an opportunity to use their platforms for something more meaningful.
For Jelena, the focus shouldn’t be on body size, appearance or private relationships.
Instead, she hopes conversations centre on qualities like kindness, empathy, respect and genuine human connection.
Speaking up for those who can’t
Jelena acknowledged that years in the public eye have helped her develop resilience, but she worries about the effect online abuse can have on others.
While she considers herself strong enough to handle criticism, she knows many people aren’t.
She urged people to think carefully before sharing rumours or making personal judgments online, reminding everyone that words can leave lasting emotional scars.
If speaking openly helps even one person feel less alone, she believes it’s worth it.
Using her voice for something bigger
Jelena’s latest public appearance wasn’t about defending herself—it was to support World Vision Australia’s 1000 Voices for 1000 Girls campaign ahead of the International Day of the Girl.
The initiative highlights the challenges faced by vulnerable girls worldwide, including barriers to education, child marriage, violence and early pregnancy.
Jelena said she felt honoured to help raise awareness and encourage Australians to sponsor young girls, noting the campaign has already exceeded its original fundraising target.
She joined a group of ambassadors including tennis star Alex de Minaur, actor Rebecca Gibney, musician Amy Shark, television personality Woody Whitelaw, rugby player Mahalia Murphy, model Unice Wani and chef Kishwar Chowdhury.
A mission shaped by her own past
Jelena’s commitment to advocacy is deeply personal.
She has spent years speaking publicly about the abuse she suffered during her childhood at the hands of her late father, Damir Dokic, experiences she documented in her bestselling books Unbreakable and Fearless.
Her powerful documentary, Unbreakable: The Jelena Dokic Story, which explored both her tennis career and the trauma she endured, won the Logie Award for Best Factual or Documentary Program this year.
Since retiring from professional tennis, Jelena has built a respected career as a commentator with Nine while continuing to advocate for survivors of family violence, body positivity and mental wellbeing.
For her, the latest wave of rumours is simply another reminder that public attention can be relentless—but she hopes every difficult moment can become an opportunity to encourage greater compassion, both online and beyond.
