Being a champion is a difficult thing; it requires a lot of passion, dedication, hard work, aspiration, talent, and discipline. World No. 2 Novak Djokovic is the embodiment of a champion, having won the most Grand Slams in men’s tennis history.
Through his achievements, Novak has gained many admirers throughout the years; World No. 5 Stefanos Tsitsipas is one such person. The Greek superstar recently discussed one specific aspect of Nole’s training that most impressed him in an interview.
Tsitsipas reveals Djokovic’s winning formula
In an interview with SDNA, the 24-year-old Greek player discussed the differences between Djokovic and another long-going superstar, Rafael Nadal. He believes that Nadal’s approach to preparation has contributed to his physical struggles.
“I have observed his routines and seen how professional he is at what he does. It’s completely normal that he’s playing at this level. I don’t want to say anything bad about Nadal, but he has different routines that have cost him his career with injuries, and I know why these things happen,” said Tsitsipas.
He then specifically praised Nole’s dietary disciplines, which he believes have played a crucial part in the Serb’s longevity: “Novak has avoided it; his diet is the most incredible in tennis. His recovery is the most advanced I have seen. So, I also take some elements and add them to my own tennis. I think that’s also why he’s going so strong at an age where you’d think your level would drop, which is normal.”
Stefanos Tsitsipas on Nadal & Djokovic:
“I don't want to say anything bad about Rafa, but he has different routines that have cost him his career with injuries.. Novak has avoided it, his diet is the most incredible in tennis, his recovery is the most advanced I’ve seen” pic.twitter.com/bu3fqYLTIc
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) July 3, 2023
What is the diet plan of Novak Djokovic?
Novak Djokovic has a reputation for being extremely health conscious. Most notably, he is a vegan who also avoids gluten-based products. Djokovic prefers not to be labelled a vegan, but he does not eat much meat, fish, or other animal products.
According to “Serve To Win,” Novak Djokovic’s autobiography, he went from “the brink of failure to the champion of the world” after committing to a gluten- and dairy-free diet.
“Physically, I couldn’t compete,” wrote the former World No. 1. “Mentally, I didn’t feel like I belonged on the same court as the best players in the game. But then, lo and behold, I made some changes, and that transformed everything.”
“This wasn’t magic,” he continued. “The work ethic had always been there, starting with that six-year-old and his perfectly packed tennis bag. But suddenly there was an X factor, a change in my diet that allowed my body to perform the way it was meant to.”
What are your opinions on Novak’s strict diet? Let us know more of your thoughts in the comments section.
