PARIS, FRANCE — Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion and one of tennis’s most disciplined athletes, has long been known for his meticulous approach to health and recovery. After his recent semifinal loss to Jannik Sinner at the 2025 French Open, Djokovic revealed his secret to maintaining peak performance: a morning "detox" ritual involving two specific beverages.
In an exclusive post-match interview, Djokovic shared, "Every morning starts with two drinks that help me reset and prepare for the day—whether it’s training, recovery, or competition. It’s non-negotiable for me." The drinks? A combination of warm lemon water and celery juice, a routine he credits for his longevity and resilience on tour.
The Science Behind Djokovic’s Morning Routine
Nutritionists and sports scientists have weighed in on Djokovic’s choices, confirming their benefits for detoxification and performance. "Lemon water alkalizes the body, supports digestion, and provides a vitamin C boost, while celery juice is rich in electrolytes and antioxidants," explains Dr. Mark Kovacs, a performance specialist who has worked with elite athletes.
Djokovic’s routine aligns with his gluten-free, plant-based diet, which he adopted over a decade ago to address allergies and improve endurance. His morning ritual is designed to:
- Flush toxins accumulated overnight
- Hydrate the body before intense training
- Reduce inflammation, a critical factor for joint health in tennis
Why Lemon Water?
Djokovic drinks warm lemon water first thing in the morning, a practice endorsed by Ayurvedic medicine. "It kickstarts metabolism, aids liver function, and balances pH levels," says nutritionist Gabriela Peacock, who has advised celebrities and athletes. The citric acid in lemons also helps prevent kidney stones, a concern for athletes prone to dehydration.
The Power of Celery Juice
Thirty minutes after lemon water, Djokovic consumes 16 ounces of fresh celery juice. "Celery is a natural anti-inflammatory and contains sodium cluster salts that hydrate at a cellular level," says medical researcher Dr. Anthony Balduzzi. Studies suggest celery juice may also lower blood pressure, a benefit for athletes managing stress during high-stakes matches.
Djokovic’s Longevity Secret
At 38, Djokovic continues to dominate a sport increasingly dominated by younger players. His rivals, including Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, have praised his endurance. "Novak’s discipline off the court is why he’s still winning Slams," Sinner remarked after their Roland Garros clash.
Djokovic’s coach, Goran Ivanišević, notes that the morning ritual is just one piece of a larger puzzle:
- Strict sleep schedule (8–9 hours nightly)
- Cold therapy and infrared sauna sessions
- Customized yoga and mobility work
Can Fans Adopt This Routine?
While Djokovic’s regimen is tailored to his elite needs, experts say the morning drinks are accessible to anyone. "Start with a small glass of each and monitor how your body responds," advises Peacock. Those with acid reflux or kidney issues should consult a doctor first.
Djokovic himself acknowledges that consistency is key. "It’s not about one day—it’s about thousands of mornings," he said. His commitment to these small habits underscores why he remains a force in tennis, even as younger challengers rise.
The Road Ahead
After his Paris exit, Djokovic will shift focus to Wimbledon, where he aims for a record-breaking 8th title. Whether his morning drinks will fuel another historic run remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: his attention to detail sets him apart.
As Djokovic told reporters, "The body listens to what you put into it. If you treat it like a temple, it will carry you farther than you ever imagined." For now, his temple starts with lemon water and celery juice—one sip at a time.