Former tennis star Jelena Dokic has issued a plea to women from her hospital bed as she recovers from major surgery.
The Australian television presenter revealed a large fibroid, a growth on the uterus, was removed. Jelena has assured fans “all went well.”
“A bit sore from the 4 cuts on my stomach and abdomen but all normal and in recovery now,” she wrote on Instagram. “I will be taking it slow for a bit but will be back up on my feet very soon.”
Jelena encouraged women to get regular scans and listen to their bodies as “women’s reproductive issues can sometimes be dismissed.”
“I also just want to raise awareness of women having fibroids because around 70 percent of women will get them by the age of 50. That’s a massive number and there has not been a lot of awareness or talk about it,” she continued.
“Some women it will not affect at all and some will have a lot of pain and bleeding depending on where it is and how big it is. Please get your scans, regular gynaecological check ups and if anything ever feels off or painful please don’t dismiss it and go to your doctor.
“Always advocate for your health no matter what.”
Jelena, 42, thanked the doctors, nurses and everyone who cared for her, noting the “incredible” pre and post operation care.
“You made me feel so comfortable and looked after and like I was in the safest hands. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to each and every one of you that I met and that looked after me. Legends that don’t get enough credit and spotlight and absolutely should,” the Nine commentator wrote.
“And a big thank you to ‘my people’ that all called, sent messages, flowers and are here for me. You know who you are. Love you all,” she concluded.
As Jelena recovers from the surgery, she continues to achieve massive strides in her career. Her documentary, Unbreakable has received international praise, winning the Best Documentary Award at the Asian Academy Awards in Singapore.
Unbreakable has also received four award nominations for the 2026 AACTA Awards, taking place in Queensland. These nominations are for Best Sound, Best Original Score, Best Editing, and Best Documentary.
