Jelena Dokic announces split from partner of almost 19 years: 'I fought so hard but it wasn't enough'

Tennis great Jelena Dokic has announced her separation from her partner of 18-and-a-half years, Tin Bikic.

The former World Number Four shared a post to Instagram, using a photo of her and Bikic with a tear through the middle to reveal the news, explaining it had led to her social media absence in recent weeks.

"After almost 19 years together, Tin and I have decided to go our separate ways. Sometimes these things happen, people grow apart and it's for the best."

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"I would be lying if I said I was doing well but I will give it my absolute all to heal and recover and process this pain and trauma and if nothing else I will die trying," she continued.

"I gave this relationship my all, my heart and soul and I fought so hard till the end but ultimately it wasn't enough this time but I am hopeful that there is still happiness and love somewhere out there waiting for me."

Dokic said she was "in pain" and "hurt" but is focusing on "putting one foot in front of the other."

"I will have to learn to walk again before I can run when it comes to love and happiness but I will give this healing process my all. I am a fighter and I will fight till the end," she wrote.

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The tennis star said she wished her ex all the best, adding, "I hope he finds what he is looking for."

She then thanked her friends and family, and her fans, who have shown concern for her over the last few weeks.

"I don't have the strength to reply but just know that I read every single one of your messages and I appreciate it so much. It keeps me going to know that I have so many people that care and support me, especially in tough times."

The announcement comes after Dokic shared an ambiguous update with her fans after Christmas, explaining why she'd not been active on her social media.

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"Thank you for all your messages of concern and care in regards to me being completely absent from Instagram and not answering messages," she wrote at the time.

"Hope this clears it up a bit. I am going through a very tough period in my life right now, a huge change and just processing a lot of pain and trauma and I need time to heal and recover. Thank you for your understanding."