Everyone was talking about former world No.4 Jelena Dokic during the Australian Open playoffs and she reached the final, however, she didn’t manage to go all the way and was defeated by 259th-ranked and eight years younger Olivia Rogowska 1-6 7-6(3) 6-3 in the rain-interrupted match.
Nevertheless, Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley hinted that Dokic could receive one of the four discretionary wildcards, because she made the playoffs final, showed determination, good form and was working on her preparation.
“She’s done everything that’s been asked of her to give herself another real opportunity,” said Tiley.
The 19-year-old Rogowska played the Australian Open two times, in 2009 and 2010, and lost in the first round on both occasions. Dokic, currently ranked 137th, won the playoffs for a wildcard into the 2009 Australian Open and was the story of the tournament when she reached the quarterfinals. Last year at the Australian Open, Dokic lost in the first round to Alisa Kleybanova. (photo: Stephane Martinache)
I felt so sad for Dokic 🙁 She is one of my favorite players! I think the rainy weather in Melbourne (the rain delay during the match) effected her mentally, and gave Rogowska a chance to re group!
I hope that Jelena is rewarded for her efforts with one of the four discretionary wildcards 🙂
Yay! Although I feel bad for Jelena, I love this result. Having watched Olivia play against Safina at the US a few years ago, I believe this girl has game; and can be the best big thing after Sammy Stosur! 🙂
Both players deserved this one and it’s always unfortunate when rain gets in the way of the flow of the match. Here’s hoping Dokic gets one of the last wildcards.