“Novak and Jannik are the most physically prepared”: Marco Panichi on the ultimate benchmarks of men’s tennis fitness

Marco Panichi is one of the most influential figures in modern tennis conditioning. For seven seasons, he was a key part of Novak Djokovic’s team, accompanying him through some of the most demanding and successful periods of his career. He later joined Jannik Sinner’s environment during a delicate phase, marked by the clostebol case and a complex management of the competitive calendar, remaining in that role up until the eve of the last Wimbledon.

Before working with two of the most prominent names in contemporary tennis, Panichi had already made his mark with players such as Fabio Fognini and Francesca Schiavone, in addition to collaborating with other professionals on the ATP and WTA circuits.

The physical coach shared some impressions during an interview with La Reppublica, on the current demands of tennis conditioning, stating that Sinner and Djokovic are the “most physically prepared” on the men’s tour, while also praising the women’s circuit, noting that “Swiatek’s legs are the best on tour.”

Currently, Panichi resides in Monte Carlo, where he supervises Holger Rune’s recovery following an Achilles tendon rupture, one of the most serious physical challenges for a professional tennis player. At the same time, he participates in the PL Management project, focused on developing young Italian and international talents from the Forum Sport Center in Rome, with a long-term vision based on comprehensive training.

Panichi has been present during some of the most physically demanding stretches of modern tennis, from Djokovic’s well-documented obsession with preparation to Sinner’s rise as a Grand Slam contender. Asked how he accompanies players through these journeys, he dismisses monotony. For him, repetition alone leads to stagnation, not excellence.

He describes the daily process as hard work combined with creativity, gradually introducing variation to keep both body and mind engaged. The gym is only a starting point, not a destination. Panichi believes routines must evolve to reflect the growing physical and emotional demands placed on top players throughout a season.

“Working hard, every day. With imagination, because repetition doesn’t work. You have to change things, little by little. Get out of the gym, turn routine into a game. Do a bit of everything: canoeing, ice skating, horse riding. Even dancing on tables or singing karaoke, if necessary.”

Panichi is careful when discussing individual cases. Contractual obligations prevent him from addressing specifics, particularly regarding Sinner. Still, he acknowledges that unconventional methods can play a role in helping athletes manage emotions during periods of pressure or uncertainty.

“I can’t talk about my relationship with Jannik for contractual reasons. I won’t give names. I will say that, in general, certain improvisations can help some athletes learn how to manage their emotions.”

Reflecting on his recent career, Panichi points to a surprising highlight: a three-month suspension period that became professionally rewarding rather than limiting. He frames it as a rare window for focused, respectful collaboration, away from the relentless rhythm of competition. “I think I can say one thing: the three months of his suspension were one of the best moments of my professional life. We worked hard, always had fun, and exchanged many things with great respect.”

At the highest level, Panichi stresses that advantage is always temporary. Players at the top of the rankings understand that progress elsewhere never stops. Maintaining position requires daily commitment, physically and mentally, with no room for complacency. “They have an advantage, but they know that to stay at the top, they can’t drift for a single day. Because the others are progressing too. You always have to be at your maximum, physically and mentally. It’s not easy.”

Asked to identify the best athletes he has worked with, Panichi draws on his background in athletics, where he won two Italian long jump titles with a personal best of 7.42 metres. His benchmark is balance rather than extremes. “A tennis player must be like a good decathlete, not too resistant and not too explosive. Something in between," he said. "Novak and Jannik are the most physically prepared. In terms of athletic ability, Fognini was impressive. Like Rune: it’s impossible to beat him with a drop shot. Jasmine Paolini is a pleasure to watch, she has incredible strength. Iga Swiatek’s legs are the best on tour. Emma Navarro also has great potential.”