Djokovic Has Studied Sinner's Training Methods
The 39-year-old tennis star is examining rival Jannik Sinner's approach to maintain his elite competitive standing.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Tennis
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Novak Djokovic has expressed a keen interest in the training methods utilized by Jannik Sinner as he navigates his 24th season on the ATP Tour. The 24-time Grand Slam champion is seeking new strategies to remain the best player in the world.
Why it matters
Djokovic aims to regain his competitive edge after winning only one of his last seven head-to-head matches against Sinner. This pivot highlights his willingness to adapt his internal recovery and preparation systems to challenge younger, dominant rivals.
Novak Djokovic is currently 39 years old and is competing in his 24th season on the ATP Tour. He holds an all-time record of 24 Grand Slam titles, though he has struggled recently against Sinner.
The players
Novak Djokovic
He is a 39-year-old tennis icon and 24-time Grand Slam champion currently playing his 24th season on the ATP Tour.
Jannik Sinner
He is a top-ranked professional tennis player who has recently dominated his head-to-head record against Djokovic.
Carlos Costa
He serves as a professional physiotherapist for Novak Djokovic.
The details
Djokovic is actively refining his internal team tests to better evaluate recovery strategies and treatment outcomes. He is also scrutinizing minor operational details, such as the specific timing and delivery of towels during matches, to improve his focus.
Timeline
September 30th, 2026: The China Open is scheduled to begin.
The Big Picture
Djokovic is currently testing his routine against the ATP Tour's performance recovery standards to extend his career. His shift marks a departure from traditional veteran training, indicating a willingness to adopt the techniques of his younger rivals to stay at the top.
The potential implementation of these training methods could impact Djokovic's performance trajectory at the China Open and subsequent hard-court events. Fans and analysts will monitor whether these adjustments lead to an immediate improvement in his head-to-head results against Sinner.
The takeaway
Even at the highest level of professional sports, veteran athletes must continuously iterate their preparation to counter emerging competition. Incorporating successful strategies from rivals remains a hallmark of sustained greatness in high-stakes tennis.
What happens next
Djokovic and Sinner are expected to compete against one another at the upcoming China Open, which begins on September 30th, 2026.
Further reading
For more on the current landscape of professional tennis, visit our Tennis section.
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