Novak Djokovic is already laying the groundwork for the 2026 season, and the latest move underscores just how seriously the 24-time Grand Slam champion is approaching the next phase of his career. Djokovic has added Dr. Mark Kovacs to his team, bringing in one of the most respected minds in tennis performance science as he embarks on a renewed physical rebuild.
The collaboration centers on conditioning, injury prevention, biomechanics, recovery, and on-court performance optimization, signaling a deliberate, forward-looking effort as Djokovic prepares for the demands of another season.
Continuity Over Change in Novak Djokovic’s Evolving Team Structure
The decision is notable not only because of Djokovic’s age and longevity, but also because of how carefully he curates his support staff. Throughout his career, Djokovic has favored continuity, trust, and long-standing relationships over frequent changes. That philosophy remains intact as he heads toward 2026, with Dr. Kovacs complementing a coaching and performance structure that has been refined over the years on tour.
🚨Novak Djokovic has hired a new member to his team.
Dr. Mark Kovacs is working with Novak with a focus on physical conditioning, injury prevention, biomechanics, recovery, and on-court performance optimization.
Novak is rebuilding his body and training hard for the new season. pic.twitter.com/euYhXL02MT
— Danny (@DjokovicFan_) December 14, 2025
At the core of Djokovic’s setup are Dušan Vemić and Boris Bošnjaković, who serve as his primary coaches. Vemić, a former professional player and longtime associate, returned to a lead coaching role in 2025, reconnecting with Djokovic after earlier stints in his career.
Bošnjaković operates alongside him as both assistant coach and tactical analyst, with a heavy emphasis on opponent scouting, match preparation, and performance data. Their collaboration shapes Djokovic’s on-court strategy, technical fine-tuning, and daily training decisions during tournaments.
Practice sessions are anchored by Carlos “Charly” Gómez-Herrera, Djokovic’s regular hitting partner and one of his closest confidants on tour. Beyond providing elite-level practice, Gómez-Herrera plays a critical behind-the-scenes role, assisting with logistics and functioning as an informal team manager during events.
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On the physical and medical front, Djokovic continues to rely on physiotherapists Claudio Zimaglia and Miljan Amanović. Zimaglia focuses on treatment, recovery, and injury prevention during competition weeks, while Amanović, a long-time fixture in Djokovic’s inner circle, oversees hands-on therapy and physical maintenance.
Djokovic also had Edoardo Artaldi overseeing the business and organizational side until 2023, when the Serb confirmed they had parted ways.
Dr. Kovacs now fits into this structure with a specialized mandate, working alongside the medical staff as Djokovic rebuilds his body and trains intensely for the upcoming season.
