How Novak Djokovic Uses AI to Stay on Top

At 37, Novak Djokovic, the greatest tennis player of all time, is not slowing down—he’s getting stronger. While other athletes his age decline, he just had his best year ever. How? By turning his body into a $186 million science experiment.

A Career Defined by Precision

With 24 Grand Slam singles titles, 428 weeks as World #1, and $186 million in prize money, Djokovic has mastered longevity.

In 2023, he recorded the highest first-serve percentage of his career at the Australian Open. Unlike most athletes who focus on getting stronger, Djokovic prioritizes not getting weaker.

He spends hours on preventive exercises before even stepping on the court. His secret? Treating his body like a science experiment.

The Turning Point: A Simple Bread Test

Djokovic’s transformation began in 2010 with a seemingly simple test. Dr. Igor Cetojevic asked him to hold a piece of bread against his stomach while pressing down on his other arm. The result? His arm instantly felt weaker. This moment changed everything.

Within two weeks of going gluten-free:

• His energy levels transformed.
• His recovery improved.
• His mental clarity sharpened.

But Djokovic wasn’t satisfied. He wanted to optimize every aspect of his performance.

Obsession with Precision

Djokovic’s commitment to optimization goes beyond diet. Some of his unconventional methods include:

• CVAC pod for recovery
• Lukewarm water only (never cold)
• Healing disc for electromagnetic fields
• Yoga stretching strap for anti-gravitational work

However, the real breakthrough came with artificial intelligence.

Enter AI: The Game-Changer

At the Novak Tennis Center, Djokovic integrated AI into every aspect of his training. The crown jewel? AI-powered pose estimation technology that revolutionized his game in five key ways:

1. Movement Pattern Analysis

The AI tracks every step, pivot, and lunge. The result? Djokovic optimized his court coverage by identifying inefficient movements. Now, he covers more ground while using less energy.

2. Serve Biomechanics

The AI breaks down his serve into over 20 data points, analyzing:

• Arm angle
• Hip rotation
• Weight transfer
• Point of contact

This led to his highest first-serve percentage ever in 2023.

3. Recovery Optimization

The system monitors fatigue indicators in his movement, including:

• Reaction time
• Landing mechanics
• Deceleration patterns

By identifying signs of overexertion early, Djokovic prevents injuries before they happen.

4. Shot Selection Analysis

The AI identifies winning patterns in his game, such as:

• Most effective shot combinations
• Optimal court positions
• High-percentage plays

This allows Djokovic to make razor-sharp strategic decisions on the court.

5. Technical Refinement

Every stroke is analyzed for:

• Consistency
• Efficiency
• Power generation
• Spin production

The result? Perfect technique under pressure.

AI Didn’t Just Enhance His Training—It Transformed It

Djokovic’s use of AI has redefined what’s possible in professional tennis. While others train harder, he trains smarter, leveraging cutting-edge technology to extend his dominance in the sport. His story is proof that with the right approach, peak performance has no expiration date.