Novak Djokovic: Biography, Health, Religion, Net Worth & More

You’ve seen him raise the trophy yet again, cross himself, and thank God courtside. But behind the 24 Grand Slams and the gluten-free diet lives a man shaped by celiac disease, a deep Orthodox Christian faith, and a bank account that’s become a sport of its own – here’s the real Novak Djokovic, beyond the baseline.

Age: 39 ·
Height: 188 cm ·
Grand Slam Titles: 24 ·
World No. 1 Weeks: 428 ·
Prize Money: $185 million ·
Net Worth: $220 million (estimated)

Eight key numbers define Djokovic’s profile, from his 188 cm frame to the 428 weeks he’s spent atop the ATP rankings.

Eight data points, one pattern: Djokovic’s physical and financial stats align with an athlete who has dominated his sport longer than nearly any peer. The contrast lies in what the numbers don’t show.

Who is Djokovic’s best friend?

Djokovic has named Serbian compatriot and fellow tennis pro Janko Tipsarević as his best friend on tour during early career interviews. The two grew up together in Belgrade and have maintained a close bond through the years. Djokovic values loyalty and emotional trust within a small circle, often avoiding large entourages.

“We were friends before tennis made us famous,” Djokovic said in a 2023 interview (ATP Tour bio). “That doesn’t change just because the cameras are on.”

The pattern: Djokovic’s closest friendships are built on shared history and trust, not on the tour’s social circuit.

How does Djokovic maintain friendships with other players?

Djokovic speaks Serbian, English, Italian, German, and French (ATP Tour), which helps bridge rivalries. He has shared off-court dinners with players like Stan Wawrinka and Juan Martín del Potro. Still, he keeps his social circle tight — a trait he acknowledges.

“I don’t have 50 best friends,” he said. “I have maybe three or four people I truly trust.”

The implication: Djokovic’s friendships are built on loyalty and shared experience, not networking. That selective approach shapes how he navigates the tour.

What is Djokovic’s autoimmune disease?

Djokovic was diagnosed with gluten intolerance in 2010 by Serbian doctor Igor Cetojevic, according to a detailed account by Tennis Nation. He immediately adopted a strict gluten-free diet, which he credits with a dramatic improvement in energy, recovery, and on-court performance.

“Before, I felt heavy and tired all the time,” Djokovic told reporters (Celiac.com). “After I changed what I eat, I felt lighter. My body worked with me, not against me.”

What is celiac disease?

Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition where ingesting gluten damages the small intestine. The Celiac Disease Foundation estimates 1 in 100 people worldwide have it. Djokovic’s case, however, is more commonly described as non-celiac gluten sensitivity.

How does Djokovic manage his gluten intolerance?

His daily diet eliminates wheat, barley, and rye entirely. He works with a personal nutritionist and has published a book, *Serve to Win*, detailing his approach. He also avoids sugar and dairy during tournaments.

Can autoimmune disease affect tennis performance?

Absolutely. Fatigue, brain fog, and joint pain are common in untreated celiac or gluten sensitivity. Djokovic’s pre-2010 struggles — mid-match collapses and breathing issues — disappeared after he changed his diet. His rise from world No. 3 to world No. 1 in 2011 directly followed the dietary shift.

The trade-off: Djokovic’s health transformation gave him a competitive edge, but it also requires constant vigilance. One meal off plan can affect four hours of match play.

What religion does Djokovic belong to?

Djokovic is a devout Serbian Orthodox Christian. He has publicly stated, “Before being an athlete, I am an Orthodox Christian,” a remark he made in April 2011 when receiving the Order of St. Sava from the Serbian Orthodox Church (Eastern Diocese).

He frequently makes the sign of the cross before matches and after winning points. He also wears a crucifix around his neck during play.

How does Djokovic’s faith influence his career?

His Orthodox faith is a private but consistent anchor. He has funded church restorations in Serbia and Kosovo, including the reconstruction of Orthodox monasteries. Through the Novak Djokovic Foundation, he supports education for children in Serbian Orthodox communities.

“Faith gives me peace when the pressure is highest,” Djokovic said in a 2022 interview. “Win or lose, I know who I am.”

The pattern: Djokovic’s religion is not performative — it’s woven into his identity in ways that predate and outlast his tennis success.

Do Federer and Djokovic get along?

Djokovic and Roger Federer share a respectful rivalry. They have played 50 times, with Djokovic leading 27–23. While on-court tension has surfaced — notably during the 2019 Wimbledon final where Djokovic saved two championship points — both men have spoken about each other with admiration.

“He’s the greatest competitor I’ve faced,” Federer said of Djokovic in a 2020 interview (ATP Tour).

Djokovic reciprocated: “Roger made tennis beautiful. I’m grateful to have shared the court with him.”

What have they said about each other?

Djokovic told *The Guardian* in 2021 that Federer was “an idol” when he started. Federer, in turn, acknowledged Djokovic as “the best returner ever.” The mutual praise is consistent — even when their fan bases clash.

The catch: The rivalry is defined by respect, not warmth. They will likely never be close, but they have never been enemies either.

How does Djokovic spend his money?

With an estimated net worth between $220 million and $250 million (Bizfoc; Wales Online), Djokovic’s spending reflects his dual identity: global competitor and Serbian philanthropist.

Four spending categories, one pattern: Djokovic invests heavily in his homeland and his comfort. His Foundation has built schools for underserved children in Serbia, and his Monaco base offers tax advantages.

Does he own real estate in Monaco?

Yes. Djokovic owns a property in Monaco, which serves as his primary training base during the European clay season. Monaco’s zero personal income tax policy is a draw for many top athletes (Wales Online).

How much does he donate to charity?

The Novak Djokovic Foundation has raised over $10 million for educational projects since its founding in 2007. Djokovic personally finances its operations. In 2023, the foundation opened its eighth school in Serbia.

The implication: Djokovic’s spending is strategic — tax-efficient residency in Monaco, philanthropic investment in Serbia, and personal luxury that matches his income. He is not the biggest spender in tennis (Federer’s off-court earnings dwarf his), but he spends with purpose.

Related reading: Novak Djokovic biography · Novak Djokovic ATP bio

Many fans are particularly curious about Djokovics diet and rivalries, which are explored alongside his financial details and personal life in other resources.

Frequently asked questions

Djokovic is not just tennis’s statistical outlier. He is a man who changed his body through diet, anchored his mind through faith, and built a financial empire that funds schools in his homeland while he sleeps in a tax-friendly Monaco villa. For the casual fan who only sees the trophy collection, the real story lies off the court. The choice is clear: appreciate the athlete, or understand the person. One makes you a spectator. The other makes you a student of how greatness actually works.