MELBOURNE, Jan 21: Novak Djokovic says meditating has helped him overcome fear and stress that comes with playing elite tennis.
The 12-time Grand Slam champion, 30, says he often turned to the practice during his long spell out of the game last year with elbow trouble.
The Serb former World No. 1 is playing in his first tournament since Wimbledon in July and he has a brand new support team, headed by eight-time Grand Slam champion Andre Agassi as coach.
Djokovic said after reaching the fourth round of the year�s opening Grand Slam on Saturday that he now meditates on a daily basis.
�Yes, I do. I�ll tell you what. I don�t want to tell you what I gain with it, but I�ll tell what I lose with it,� he said.
�I lose fear. I lose anxiety. I lose stress. I guess, in the end of the day, that�s what you�re looking for.�
Djokovic has become involved in meticulous off-the-court preparation in recent years. He has a strict, gluten-free diet and is an advocate for well-being.
The new year has given him the opportunity to analyse aspects of his game and preparation. � AFP
