While many believe Novak Djokovic is a vegetarian or vegan, the tennis superstar clarifies he follows a predominantly plant-based diet, having eliminated gluten and dairy from his nutrition for health reasons. His dietary approach is a key component of his holistic wellness philosophy, which he credits for his longevity and success on the court.
The Journey to a Plant-Based Lifestyle
Djokovic's dietary transformation began in 2010 following a mid-match collapse due to breathing difficulties and fatigue. He was introduced to nutritionist Dr. Igor Cetojevic, who used a simple test to discover Djokovic's sensitivity to gluten and dairy. After a two-week trial eliminating these foods, Djokovic experienced immediate improvements in energy, sleep quality, and overall health. A subsequent attempt to reintroduce gluten caused a significant setback, confirming the need for a permanent change.
Djokovic's Dietary Philosophy
His diet is focused on whole, unprocessed foods and is free of gluten and dairy. He has also eliminated most sugar and processed ingredients. While predominantly plant-based, he has included some organic or wild animal protein sources, such as fish and chicken, in the past. However, he has also been a vocal advocate for plant-based eating and was an executive producer for the 2018 documentary The Game Changers, which highlights plant-based athletes.
Typical Foods on Djokovic's Plate
His day typically begins with a glass of warm water and lemon, followed by celery juice and a green smoothie. Other regular components of his nutrition include:
- Breakfast: A "Power Bowl" containing gluten-free muesli or oatmeal, mixed nuts, seeds, and fruits.
- Lunch: Mixed green salads and gluten-free pasta made from rice or quinoa.
- Snacks: Fruit, nuts, seeds, and gluten-free crackers with avocado or hummus.
- Dinner: Fresh salads, carrot and ginger soup, or occasionally, organic protein sources like salmon or chicken.
Comparing Diets: Traditional vs. Djokovic's
| Feature | Traditional Western Diet | Novak Djokovic's Diet |
|---|---|---|
| Core Focus | Often high in processed foods, meat, and dairy | Predominantly whole, unprocessed plant foods |
| Gluten | Common staple (bread, pasta, cereal) | Strictly eliminated due to intolerance |
| Dairy | Common staple (milk, cheese, yogurt) | Strictly eliminated due to intolerance |
| Protein Sources | Reliance on red meat, poultry, and dairy | Varied plant-based sources (nuts, seeds, legumes) with occasional organic fish or chicken |
| Sugar | Often high in refined sugars | Avoids refined sugar, uses natural sources like manuka honey |
| Holistic Approach | Food often viewed simply as fuel | Nutrition integrated with overall wellness, including sleep and meditation |
The Holistic Approach and Its Impact
Djokovic's holistic wellness approach extends beyond food. He focuses on mindful eating, proper hydration, intermittent fasting, and grounding (walking barefoot) to maintain peak physical and mental condition. His dedication to this comprehensive lifestyle has allowed him to sustain an elite level of tennis well into his late 30s, far exceeding the typical career length of many professional athletes. By paying close attention to his body's specific needs and eliminating inflammatory triggers like gluten and dairy, he has optimized his performance and recovery. This has made him a testament to the power of disciplined nutrition and a holistic view of health.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Novak Djokovic is not a vegetarian, but a testament to the power of a highly specific, personalized, and predominantly plant-based dietary regimen. His decision to eliminate gluten and dairy was driven by health issues, leading to a massive career resurgence. By focusing on whole, nutrient-dense foods and a holistic approach to wellness, he has built a foundation for his remarkable longevity and success in professional tennis. His story is a powerful example of how individualized nutrition can unlock peak athletic potential.
