Novak Djokovic is known to have built a legacy on the tennis court. He has been breaking records and setting new benchmarks each season. Djokovic leads a busy life off the court, too. He has been rallying for the financial stability of his fellow players. There is only so much a player can do in his career, and Djokovic is doing all he can.
The Serbian is dedicated to a gluten-free and dairy-free diet. His dietary choices are based on his belief in the benefits of a plant-based and gluten-free lifestyle for athletic performance and overall well-being. Djokovic has mentioned his obsession with food since childhood and has his own food empire.
Novak Djokovic found success at Belgrade
Djokovic’s parents were in the food industry for more than two decades. Their experience provided him with an idea of how the business worked. A year after winning the 2008 Australian Open, Djokovic launched his first restaurant, “Novak” in Belgrade. It provides Serbian and cuisines from all over the world. There are also vegan dishes available. There are now multiple chains of Novak cafes and restaurants in Belgrade.
Novak djokovic and wife Jelena open their new vegan restaurant 🙂 #fridayfeeling #veganfood #whatveganseat https://t.co/yvDBO2gpR3
— Dublin Vegfest (@DublinVegfest) April 15, 2016
Novak restaurants have opened up in Kragujevac and Kraljevo. There is seating for over 250 people, and you can enjoy the view from the first floor. Their specialty is a beefsteak with three sauces, a ramstake with caramelized onion, and salad with goat cheese and dry plums. Fans can enjoy Djokovic’s favorite dish, chimichanga, chopped chicken in a tortilla.
Djokovic’s passion leads to Eqvita in Monte Carlo
Owing to the initial success at Belgrade, the ten-time Australian Open champion opened a vegan-based restaurant, “Eqvita,” in 2015 in Monte Carlo. The restaurant provides 100 percent organic and plant-based foods. Along with the food, it also offered organic wine, as Djokovic enjoys having red wine.
Welcoming the season with a beautiful winter #salad: miso-glazed turnips, pears, pickled girolles, clementines, pickled turnips, pumpkin seeds, frisee, miso- and pear vinaigrette drops, and borage flowers. #seasonalfood pic.twitter.com/VZ9mq3yrhW
— Eqvita Restaurant (@EqvitaRes) December 1, 2017
Djokovic had mentioned food has changed him the most. He wants people to explore his menu for them to experience the change.
Novak Djokovic shares his diet plans at restaurants
Djokovic’s food chain reflects his brand and style. His involvement in the restaurant suggests a personal interest in the food industry and a desire to contribute to the culinary scene in Belgrade.
Djokovic’s commitment to a healthy lifestyle has led to speculation that his restaurant may feature dishes or options that align with his dietary preferences.
Djokovic in support of the positive impact of nutrition
In addition to his restaurant venture, the 36-year-old has reportedly invested in or endorsed companies related to organic and health-focused food products. Djokovic has been associated with Seedlip, a non-alcoholic spirits company.
He became a brand ambassador for Seedlip, promoting their products, known for providing an alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages. In 2015, The 24-time grand slam champion started a gluten-free-based food line called “Djokolife.”
Novak Djokovic’s involvement in developing Serbia
The Novak Djokovic Foundation was started in 2007. It focuses on early childhood development, ensuring every child in Serbia can access early years programs. The foundation has built 55 preschools, trained over 2000 teachers, and invested $ 1,60,40,700. It has given access to early years programs for 53,691 children in Serbia.
Reči ne mogu da opišu koliko smo ponosni i srećni što je vrtić “Srna” u Nišu zvanično otvoren. 💛 Vrtiću “Srna” u Nišu bila je namenjena naša Sezona darivanja 2021. a on sada ima 4 nove radne sobe za 110 mališana: za njihovo obrazovanje, igru i snove. pic.twitter.com/ac1JbR98fe
— Novak Djokovic Foundation (@novakfoundation) November 13, 2023
Along with the foundation, Djokovic had reportedly started a charitable restaurant for people in need in Serbia. Djokovic is not looking to stop his involvement with the food industry. The world No. 1 will look to get busy providing nutrition for all in the upcoming years.