Dokic out of Australian Open

TeamWTA pictures
By Etienne Stekelenburg
January 15 2004

Jelena Dokic told the Australian Open organization that she is really disappointed about having to withdraw from the first Grand Slam of the season. Dokic’ goal at the end of the last season was to start along with the other players in Australia.

Dokic said she was not yet ready to start the season. She feels disappointed because she was looking forward meeting her fans in Australia again.

She also want to fight back for a spot in the top 15, giving the other players a head start will only make it harder to return in the top of the ranking.

"I've been training really hard the last couple of weeks, and although I've had a setback or two, I was hoping it wouldn't prevent me from making the trip”. Dokic said.

"Unfortunately my game is not where it needs to be to compete at the highest level and I feel I definitely would not be able to do myself justice in such a major event, but I can assure you that I will do my best to be there next year."