Novak Djokovic outlines daily wellness routine, from superfood smoothies to a ban on coffee

Novak Djokovic has given a detailed account of the daily wellness practices he says help him manage his body and sustain a career that has produced a record 24 Grand Slam titles.

The 38-year-old Serb described a morning ritual that begins with prayer and a hydration regimen and includes superfood smoothies, alternative therapies and strict limits on stimulants, saying those measures form part of his recovery toolbox after injuries and illnesses on the tour. He discussed the routine in an interview with TheTennis101.

"The very moment I wake up is always a prayer," Djokovic said. "It's always an expression of gratitude first of all for being alive and having another chance to live that day. And then I would hydrate. I would take lukewarm water, lemon and salt. I would then take my hydration formula normally that I would want to hydrate myself with. Something more than just the water. Just to replenish the electrolytes, minerals - and get myself going."

Djokovic said his typical breakfast includes fruits, juices or smoothies that supply vitamins and minerals. He described a preferred smoothie formula of mixed berries and dates, supplemented by hemp seeds, other seeds and "superfoods" such as maca powder and spirulina. He said he also uses a green powder blend that contains seaweeds and hides stronger flavours when mixed.

"I love dates, dates all day!" he said. "I would add some hemp seeds, different seeds and stuff like this. Superfoods, maca powder, spirulina - although not great tasting!"

He also stressed a reduction in stimulant use. "And no, no, I don't take coffee," Djokovic said. "I would maybe drink a green tea every once in a while that has caffeine." He said that approach forms part of his broader day-to-day recovery and performance plan.

Djokovic discussed additional elements of his regimen, which combine movement and recovery therapies. When he is not on-court for practice, he said he aims to stay active outdoors through swimming, cycling, hiking, running or playing other sports such as football, basketball, padel and ping pong to promote circulation. He pairs activity with passive recovery sessions including sauna and ice baths.

He also described more unorthodox measures he has tried while rehabilitating from injury. Djokovic recalled that after knee surgery he used a variety of remedies, including what he termed "pyramid water" from Bosnia and a "magic potion" prepared by his physios. He said a doctor’s pills helped him recover during a Wimbledon match in which he had been taken ill, allowing him to continue in the event.

Djokovic remains a central figure in men's tennis despite the emergence of younger rivals. He reached the semifinal stages at both Wimbledon and the U.S. Open this season before losing to Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz respectively. He continues to compete on the world tour while managing his training and recovery with the regimen he described.

Coaches, sports scientists and players often debate the mix of nutrition, rest and therapeutic techniques needed to extend elite performance; Djokovic said his approach combines clinically guided interventions with daily habits aimed at hydration, nutrient intake and balanced activity. He framed the routine as both practical and spiritual: beginning each day with gratitude and following with measured steps to prepare his body for the demands of professional tennis.

He did not set a timeline for retirement but remains an active competitor on the tour, with his wellness practices forming a central part of his preparation and recovery strategy.