Abu Dhabi: Former world number one Jelena Jankovic served up a treat for tennis fans at the Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa in Dubai last Saturday.
Guests at the five-star luxury hotel had the chance to hit with the Serb, who has a home in the emirate, as part of a promotional event.
The 29-year-old has endured a frustrating, injury-ridden year and has slipped to 13 in the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) rankings, which she topped in August 2008. Yet she told Gulf News that she believes she can return to these heady heights and capture her first grand slam title, having come close to doing so in September 2008 when she was beaten by Serena Williams in the US Open final.
Excerpts from an exclusive interview:
GULF NEWS: As somebody with a home in Dubai, can you tell me what you like about the place — what are your favourite places to visit and things to do?
JELENA JANKOVIC: I visit Dubai up to four times a year, and love coming to Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa. The event on Saturday with fans coming along to play against me was so much fun and it was great to see all the kids enjoying tennis. I love fashion, so shopping and the malls in Dubai are an excellent bonus. I also love the weather in Dubai.
You’re a former world number one — can you get back there, do you think? You’re 29 now, which is old in tennis terms, so can you still win a grand slam realistically?
I definitely have an ambition to return to world number one day. I would love to win a grand slam, too. I feel I have many more years to compete at a high level and achieve my goals.
How do you assess your season to date?
The beginning of the season was good, but then unfortunately I suffered with injuries, especially my back. Unfortunately, I haven’t produced the results I had hoped for, however hopefully that will change soon.
What do you think about the International Premier Tennis League (IPTL)? Are you upset not to be involved? I understand you’re involved in a rival event in India — can you tell me about that?
I’m not involved in the International Premier Tennis League due to injuries. The International Tennis Premier League is great to promote tennis in this part of the world and I too will be competing in November. It is fun to play in India, while I’m in the off-season.
You have had quite a rivalry with world number one Serena Williams — and argued at times. What do you think of her? Is she the greatest women’s player of all time?
Serena is a great champion and I have a lot of respect for her.
What’s your goal after tennis? Could you see yourself becoming a coach like Amelie Mauresmo with Andy Murray?
After my tennis career has finished, my options and vision are open. However, I may not continue in the tennis world. Let’s see.
