Seles encouraged friend Jankovic

Jelena Jankovic had the quiet support of former fellow Serb Monica Seles during her run to the US Open semi-finals, a career-best performance which ended at the hands of Justine Henin- Hardenne. Seles, who has not played in more than three years but who has also never formally retired, has been offering behind-the-scenes encouragement to the 21-year-old Jankovic.

While the pair have not met recently in person, Jankovic said: "She's writing me e-mails, I haven't talked to her.

"She's giving me all the support, telling me I played great."

The two generations of tennis have been in previous contact, though Jankovic is sketchy on the exact details.

"Of course I know her, we speak in Serbia. I'm so happy that I can work with her, she can give me some advice. She's a legend of this sport, and I'm so happy and proud to have a mentor like her.

"I don't remember exactly where was the first time I met her. I don't know. Maybe in some tournaments, or while she was still playing." The Raw Story