Does Novak Djokovic have celiac disease?

How a Gluten-Free Diet Transformed Novak Djokovic’s Career

It’s a common myth that Novak Djokovic has celiac disease, but the truth is more nuanced. While he doesn’t have the autoimmune disorder, he does suffer from a significant gluten intolerance—a revelation that changed the course of his tennis career.

Back in early 2010, Djokovic was struggling with unexplained fatigue, breathing difficulties, and inconsistent performance on the court. Despite his talent, he often felt drained during matches. That’s when he met Serbian physician Igor Cetojevic, who suspected a deeper issue: food sensitivity.

Under Cetojevic’s guidance, Djokovic underwent an elimination diet, cutting out gluten, dairy, and other potential triggers. The results were dramatic. Within weeks, his energy levels soared, his recovery times improved, and his focus sharpened. The most telling sign? His chronic on-court symptoms—like mid-match exhaustion—vanished.

Unlike celiac disease, which requires a blood test and intestinal biopsy for diagnosis, gluten intolerance is typically identified through dietary elimination. Djokovic’s experience fits this model perfectly: remove gluten, feel better, confirm through sustained improvement. He later detailed this transformation in his book Serve to Win, where he credits the diet change as a turning point in his physical and mental performance.

Since going gluten-free, Djokovic has gone on to dominate men’s tennis, setting records for Grand Slam titles and weeks at world No. 1. While genetics and discipline play a major role, his dietary shift underscores how personalized health choices can unlock elite potential.

So no, Djokovic doesn’t have celiac disease—but his sensitivity to gluten sparked one of the most remarkable turnarounds in sports history.