Marco Panichi Reveals Novak Djokovic’s Unique Nickname and Unyielding Champion’s Spirit

Serbian tennis icon Novak Djokovic is widely known for his relentless pursuit of excellence and undeniable talent, solidifying his place among the greatest athletes in history. However, his journey to the top of the sport has been anything but conventional, marked by an almost obsessive focus on perfection and an insatiable desire for continuous improvement.

The Meticulous Approach That Defines Djokovic

Djokovic’s meticulous approach to physical fitness, rigorous training routines, and disciplined nutritional habits have been fundamental in shaping his illustrious career. Even as he approaches the age of 38, a time when many players have already retired or experienced a decline in performance, Djokovic continues to defy expectations, sending shockwaves through the tennis world with his remarkable performances.

His most recent achievements at the 2025 Australian Open serve as yet another testament to his enduring strength and determination. Despite the mounting challenges of age and the increasing competitiveness of the younger generation, Djokovic powered through the tournament in a thrilling journey to the quarterfinals. While he ultimately fell short of securing his 25th Grand Slam title in Melbourne, his resilience and hunger for victory remain as strong as ever.

Overcoming Injuries and Chasing History

In recent years, Djokovic has faced several physical setbacks, including recurring injuries that threatened to derail his dominance on the ATP Tour. However, retreating has never been an option for the Serbian legend. His unwavering ambition and ironclad mentality were once again on full display during his quest for a record-extending 25th Major title at the 2025 Australian Open—a dream that was nearly realized before a left thigh injury forced him to reassess his approach.

With his sights now set on his next major challenge, Djokovic is preparing for Roland Garros, eager to reclaim the French Open crown. Nevertheless, many tennis enthusiasts believe that the prestigious Wimbledon Championships present the greatest opportunity for him to secure another Grand Slam victory. Djokovic has historically thrived on the grass courts of the All England Club, and with his unmatched ability to adapt and strategize, he remains a formidable contender on the tour.

Beyond the Court: The Fascination with Djokovic’s Mentality

The intrigue surrounding Djokovic extends far beyond his accomplishments on the court. His methodical mindset and tireless pursuit of knowledge have set him apart as one of the most intellectually curious athletes in the world. This aspect of his personality was recently highlighted in an insightful discussion with ‘Sky Sport Italy,’ where seasoned fitness coach Marco Panichi shed light on the unique moniker Djokovic has earned within his inner circle.

Panichi, who has worked closely with Djokovic for several years and is now a key member of Jannik Sinner’s coaching team, revealed that Djokovic is known among his peers as ‘Mister Why.’ This peculiar nickname is a testament to the Serbian’s insatiable curiosity and relentless desire to understand every detail of his training and performance.

“Whenever we instruct him to do something, he always asks about the reasoning behind it,” Panichi shared. “His constant questioning and need to comprehend every aspect of his training make him stand out from other players. Even from a young age, this unique mindset set him apart.”

The Mindset That Separates Champions

Djokovic’s intellectual curiosity has been one of the defining characteristics of his career. Unlike many athletes who follow prescribed training regimens without question, he insists on fully grasping the rationale behind every movement, drill, and strategic decision. This level of engagement allows him to make precise adjustments, fine-tune his approach, and maintain a level of consistency that few players have ever achieved.

Over the years, his talents have only flourished, fueled by his obsession with mastering every facet of the game. “His focus on areas of improvement that other players don’t even think about demonstrates his unique approach to the sport,” Panichi stated, reflecting on his seven-year tenure working alongside Djokovic.

While natural talent has undoubtedly played a role in Djokovic’s ascent, it is his relentless drive and analytical mind that have truly set him apart. His ability to analyze his own strengths and weaknesses, combined with his deep understanding of biomechanics, nutrition, and mental fortitude, has allowed him to sustain peak performance for nearly two decades.

The Role of Mental Strength in Djokovic’s Success

A significant part of Djokovic’s dominance stems from his unparalleled mental resilience. Throughout his career, he has encountered countless obstacles—whether it be fierce competition from rivals like Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, physical injuries, or the immense pressure of maintaining his status as the world’s best player.

Time and again, he has demonstrated an extraordinary ability to remain composed in high-pressure situations. His performances in Grand Slam finals, particularly his five-set thrillers at Wimbledon and the US Open, have solidified his reputation as one of the most mentally tough competitors in sports history.

His philosophy revolves around the idea of continuous evolution. Unlike some players who peak and then plateau, Djokovic has constantly adapted his playing style, incorporating new elements into his game to stay ahead of the curve. His openness to learning and evolving has allowed him to compete at the highest level well into his late 30s—a feat rarely seen in modern tennis.

Djokovic’s Enduring Legacy

As Djokovic continues his pursuit of greatness, his story serves as an inspiration to athletes and fans alike. His willingness to question, learn, and improve, coupled with his unwavering dedication, has cemented his legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats.

Looking ahead, Djokovic’s career may be approaching its twilight years, but his influence on the game will endure for generations to come. Whether or not he secures another Grand Slam title, his impact on tennis—both in terms of physical excellence and intellectual curiosity—will be remembered long after he retires.

For now, the tennis world eagerly awaits his next move. Will he conquer Roland Garros once more? Will Wimbledon witness yet another Djokovic masterclass? Regardless of the outcome, one thing is certain: as long as Novak Djokovic steps onto the court, he will continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in the sport of tennis.