‘This book captures the deep complexities in Novak’s mind and his life and how he’s dealt with them in a thoughtful, soul-searching way.’ – Chris Evert

‘A fascinating insight into the greatest tennis player of all time.’ – Evening Standard tennis correspondent, Matt Majendie

‘An absorbing insight into the story behind the greatest player of all time.’ – The Times tennis correspondent, Stuart Fraser

‘Mark Hodgkinson goes memorably deep on Novak Djokovic – from his hard-luck beginnings to his gluten-free diet to his unorthodox mind – helping us better understand one of the most fascinating figures in sports.’ – Christopher Clarey, author of The Master

‘Meticulously-researched.’ – Simon Cambers, author of The Federer Effect

REVISED AND UPDATED FOR 2025. INCLUDES NOVAK’S HISTORIC OLYMPIC TITLE.

No man or woman has won more Grand Slam singles titles than Novak Djokovic, who took his 24th major at the 2023 US Open. Based on fresh interviews with people close to Djokovic – including his friends and mentors, along with his former coaches and his rivals – this is an in-depth exploration of the psyche of one of the most fascinating and controversial sporting characters ever. From a bomb shelter in Belgrade to an immigration detention centre in Melbourne, and everywhere in between, this book uncovers his relentless pursuit of perfection and the unconventional beliefs that have propelled him to greatness. Rage. Forgiveness. Shame. Pride. Love. Searching for Novak examines the psychological and emotional side of rewriting tennis history.

‘A fantastic and fascinating exploration of the life of a great champion… Full of compelling insight.’ – Tom Hiddleston

‘This book captures the deep complexities in Novak’s mind and his life and how he’s dealt with them in a thoughtful, soul-searching way.’ – Chris Evert

‘A fascinating insight into the greatest tennis player of all time.’ – Evening Standard tennis correspondent, Matt Majendie

‘An absorbing insight into the story behind the greatest player of all time.’ – The Times tennis correspondent, Stuart Fraser

‘Would recommend to anyone with even a passing interest in tennis, as well as those who consider themselves experts.’ – Charlie Eccleshare, tennis correspondent for the New York Times and The Athletic

‘Mark Hodgkinson goes memorably deep on Novak Djokovic – from his hard-luck beginnings to his gluten-free diet to his unorthodox mind – helping us better understand one of the most fascinating figures in sports.’ – Christopher Clarey, author of The Master

‘Meticulously-researched, this is a go-to book for anyone who wants to get a real insight into what has made Novak Djokovic such a champion.’ – Simon Cambers, author of The Federer Effect

No man or woman has won more Grand Slam singles titles than Novak Djokovic, who took his 24th major at the 2023 US Open. Based on fresh interviews with people close to Djokovic – including his friends and mentors, along with his former coaches and his rivals – this is an in-depth exploration of the psyche of one of the most fascinating and controversial sporting characters ever. From a bomb shelter in Belgrade to an immigration detention centre in Melbourne, and everywhere in between, this book uncovers his relentless pursuit of perfection and the unconventional beliefs that have propelled him to greatness.

Rage. Forgiveness. Shame. Pride. Love. Searching for Novak examines the psychological and emotional side of rewriting tennis history.

But who is he really? And what are the experiences and influences that have shaped him into the world figure he is today?

This acclaimed biography, first published in 2006 and now fully updated in its ninth edition, traces Federer’s life and career, from his first tentative swings with a racket to legendary status. The vastly experienced writer, broadcaster and tennis historian Chris Bowers talked exclusively to many of the people who helped shape the young Roger Federer, and together with his own experiences following Federer’s career from his junior title at Wimbledon at age sixteen to his twentieth major title nineteen years later, he presents an affectionate and analytical portrait of one of the great names of modern-day sport.

His book has enough information to satisfy the most voracious Federer fan, and enough talking points to keep an argument going until the small hours. In its portrait of Roger Federer – the man, the player, the icon – this masterly biography brings the player’s story up to date, while also examining his place in tennis and sporting history.