Djokovic hires a sports physiology expert to join his team, with fans marveling at his extremely high self-discipline.

Recently, a reporter spotted the 24-time Grand Slam champion Djokovic beginning his preparations for the new season in Athens. Notably, his training team has welcomed a key new member this year—Dr. Mark Kovach, a sports science specialist who will focus on enhancing Djokovic’s physical condition, injury prevention, and optimizing his on-court performance.

It is reported that several weeks ago, Mark Kovach and Djokovic had already been in contact, and he quickly became the latest addition to the team. Dr. Kovach’s inclusion signals Djokovic’s pursuit of new methods to elevate his competitive level even at the age of 38.

Kovach boasts an impressive background; he previously served as the Sports Science Manager for the Player Development Department at the United States Tennis Association, holds a Master’s degree in Exercise Science from Auburn University, and earned a PhD in Exercise Physiology from the University of Alabama.

He is a certified strength and conditioning specialist by the National Strength and Conditioning Association, a certified health coach by the American College of Sports Medicine, and also a certified tennis coach by the United States Professional Tennis Association. Besides his strong academic credentials, Dr. Kovach has practical experience, having won both national and NCAA titles at Auburn University before transitioning into sports science after retirement. His coaching history includes close work with players like Isner and Gauff, making him a highly professional figure with deep knowledge of professional tennis.

However, Djokovic will still face numerous challenges in the new season. In 2025, he reached the semifinals of four Grand Slam events but failed to win the title. Apart from withdrawing due to injury in the Australian Open semifinals, he lost the other three Grand Slam semifinals to Sinner or Alcaraz.

In a recent interview, Djokovic admitted that he not only has to cope with the rising young generation but also manage physical issues, especially his persistent shoulder injury, which will be his primary focus in preparing for next year’s Australian Open.

Regarding his future plans, Djokovic candidly stated, “If I continue playing, I don’t intend to compete for the world No. 1 ranking next year; rankings are not important to me now.” He expressed that he is more concerned with “finding the will to compete, enjoyment, and motivation,” as well as “participating in matches in my own way and feeling good on the court.”

Facing the rise of young players, Djokovic maintains a respectful attitude: “I have never said that Jannik (Sinner) and Carlos (Alcaraz) are reaching unprecedented levels in tennis, only that they are currently better than others.” But he also emphasized, “We must highly appreciate what they have achieved, but also respect recent legends like Rafael (Nadal), Roger (Federer), Andy (Murray), and myself.”

Djokovic’s team changes have sparked much discussion online. Tennis columnist Ben Rosenberg commented on social media: “Clearly, a 24-time Grand Slam champion can never be considered the ‘third best’ because the data doesn’t lie, and besides, his ambition wouldn’t allow it.”

Petkovic also expressed confidence in Djokovic’s future: “I believe he’s still fighting, and he will give everything his nearly 40-year-old body has to win his 25th Grand Slam before retiring.”

A netizen remarked on social media: “Novak is rebuilding his body; even at 38 this year, it’s clear he still has great ambition and refuses to settle. His champion-level self-demand is truly admirable!”

Regardless, Djokovic’s team adjustment has shown many his strong desire for a 25th Grand Slam title. If the Serbian can overcome the negative impact of his physical condition, do you think he can realize his dream at next year’s Australian Open? Let’s wait and see!(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Lu Xiaotian)