Jelena Jankovic Profile

Jelena Jankovic of Serbia hits a backhand during the Women's Singles Semi Final match against Ana Ivanovic of Serbia on day twelve of the French Open at Roland Garros on June 5, 2008 in Paris, France. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)Jelena Jankovic is considered to be amongst the biggest underperformers of her generation. A player of unquestioned ability with one of the finest defensive games in the sport, Jankovic consistently reaches the latter rounds of major tournaments and has won a string of WTA titles in the past four years.

Jelena Jankovic Bio

Jelena Jankovic was born in Belgrade, Serbia on the 28th of February 1985. She began playing tennis at the age of nine, joining the ‘Red Star’ sports club in Belgrade. She soon came to the attention of star coach, Nick Bollettieri, who mentored her to her win at the 2001 Junior Australian Open.

Jelena Jankovic broke into the WTA Tour in 2001 as a sixteen-year-old. The young Serb spent two years learning the professional ropes, before securing her first major tournament win in Dubai in 2003.

Jelena Jankovic Playing Style

Jelena Jankovic is one of the finest defenders in the women’s game, and is a recognised counter-puncher. The Serb is best known for her powerful double-handed backhand which she hits down the line with devastating speed.

Jankovic also possesses a solid forehand shot, but has been criticized for a weak serve that relies more on spin than on pace. Jankovic’s net game is top class, helping her to perform on slower surfaces. She has a good drop shot and can execute accurate, powerful volleys at the net.

Jelena Jankovic Achievements

Jelena Jankovic has achieved her biggest wins in Tier 1 tournaments, claiming a string of ‘Masters’ titles on clay and hard courts. The Serb has also proven to be an effective doubles player, and won her maiden grand slam title at the 2007 Wimbledon tournament playing alongside Jamie Murray in the mixed doubles.

Jelena Jankovic French Open Form

Jelena Jankovic is one of the finest clay court players in the WTA Tour when on top of her game. Form ahead of the 2010 French Open has been encouraging, with Jankovic reaching a series of tour finals and claiming her first win of the season at Indian Wells in March.

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