At the peak of the pandemic, Novak Djokovic revealed in an interview with Sky Sports that he had contemplated retirement after the gut-wrenching Australian Open quarter-final loss to JoWilfried Tsonga in 2010. Battling a dodgy stomach and Melbourne's unforgiving humidity, Djokovic took a medical time-out in the fourth set. The Serb clutched his stomach after his tepid five-set loss to the Frenchman, gasping for breath and looking forlorn.
Medical time-outs were a recurring theme for Djokovic. He had retired in the 2009 Australian Open quarter-final against Andy Roddick.
At 23, with just a solitary Grand Slam title, critics began writing Djokovic's sporting obituary. The frequent breakdowns had left him physically destroyed and mentally knackered. It seemed like a talented career would be nipped in the bud.
The loss to Tsonga got Djokovic thinking. He reached out to Igor Cetojevic, an expert on energetic medicine. On Cetojevic's advice, Djokovic decided to take a series of blood tests that would change his life and career. His blood samples showed sensitivity to gluten, a protein found in wheat and other grains.
Overnight, he gave up gluten, dairy products, and refined sugar. He incorporated yoga and deep breathing exercises. "I instantly felt the change. I was more energetic and refreshed," Djokovic said in his book, Serve To Win.
Fourteen years later, Djokovic is arguably the fittest player on the tennis circuit. With 24 Grand Slam titles already under his belt, including three last year, he resembles a well-calibrated machine. He will turn 37 in three months, the age at which sportspersons either turn to coaching or perch themselves in the confines of the commentary box, Djokovic is out there souring young dreams.
Bu hikaye Business Standard dergisinin February 17, 2024 sayısından alınmıştır.
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Bu hikaye Business Standard dergisinin February 17, 2024 sayısından alınmıştır.
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