Djokovic Uses Acupressure Seeds at Wimbledon 2026

During the Wimbledon 2026 tournament, tennis star Novak Djokovic was observed employing a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practice, specifically acupressure, by placing small seeds in his ears. This technique, often referred to as auricular acupuncture or auriculotherapy, involves stimulating specific points on the ear believed to correspond to various parts of the body and internal organs. The seeds, typically from the Vaccaria plant, are taped to these points and can be self-stimulated by the patient.

Djokovic's use of this method was notably visible during his match against Jannik Sinner. Acupressure, a cornerstone of TCM for thousands of years, is employed to promote balance and well-being, and in athletic contexts, it is sometimes used to aid recovery, reduce pain, and enhance focus. While scientific evidence for its efficacy in sports performance is still developing, many athletes incorporate complementary and alternative medicine practices into their routines.

The practice aligns with Djokovic's broader interest in holistic health and wellness, which has included various dietary approaches and mental conditioning techniques throughout his career. The inclusion of TCM, such as acupressure, highlights a growing trend among elite athletes to explore diverse methods for optimizing physical and mental capabilities beyond conventional training and sports science. Wimbledon 2026 provided a prominent stage for this particular aspect of his preparation.