You’ll Be Surprised by Which Tennis Superstars Are Vegan
There’s a change taking place in professional tennis, and it has nothing to do with training methods or equipment.
Some of the sport’s biggest names have decided to go vegan or follow a closely aligned animal-free diet as part of their athletic routines or personal values. These players have made significant efforts to restructure how they fuel their bodies, manage injuries, and maintain consistency during long seasons. For some, it’s a strategy to stay competitive, while others are focused on ethics or long-term health.
Novak Djokovic
Image via Wikimedia Commons/Tatiana from Moscow, Russia
After being diagnosed with gluten intolerance back in 2010, Novak Djokovic removed gluten, dairy, and all animal products from his diet. He had been experiencing stamina issues and mid-match physical breakdowns that affected his performance. The change brought noticeable improvements, such as sharper focus, quicker recovery, and consistent enthusiasm.
Today, he avoids all animal products but prefers the term “plant-based” rather than “vegan.” Even his Monaco-based restaurant, Eqvita, serves only animal-free food. As time has passed, he has become one of the most visible public figures to link professional-level athletic performance with whole-food nutrition.
Venus Williams
Venus Williams has never separated her health from her performance. When autoimmune symptoms threatened her career, she leaned on a plant-focused approach as a tool to keep competing at the highest level. The drastic shift eventually became part of her routine and shaped how she prepares, trains, and recovers.
She’s also used that experience to speak to a larger audience. Through her plant-based nutrition brand, she is passing along the strategies that helped her extend her career.
Serena Williams
Image via Wikimedia Commons/Edwin Martinez from The Bronx
Serena Williams follows a mostly plant-based routine that complements energy and the healing process. Her diet includes raw vegetables, fruits, and whole grains such as quinoa and brown rice.
For her protein intake, she relies on sources like chia and hemp. Serena also promotes animal-free materials through her fashion line and reinforces her interest in sustainable practices.
Nick Kyrgios
Once Nick Kyrgios saw the impact of the Australian wildfires on animals, he stopped consuming animal products. The decision was a personal response to animal suffering rather than an athletic readiness.
Since then, he’s supported wildlife rescue efforts and partnered with plant-based brands like Beyond Meat. Though his overall diet stays casual, his commitment to animal welfare remains steady. The athlete further continues to speak about the ethical motivation behind his lifestyle and uses his platform to encourage more responsible choices.