Novak Djokovic Brings TCM Ear Seeding to Wimbledon 2026

Novak Djokovic, the Serbian tennis star and World No. 1, was seen wearing ear seeds during his match against Jannik Sinner at Wimbledon 2026. Ear seeding, a form of auriculotherapy rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), involves placing small seeds—made of gold, plastic, or herbs—on specific pressure points of the ear to stimulate healing, relieve anxiety, reduce fatigue, and promote mind-body balance. The practice dates back 3,000 years and aims to balance the body's energy flow (Qi) through meridians. According to Ava Lee, founder of K-beauty brand By Ava, the ear reflects every system and organ of the body, with pressure points that can be targeted for benefits like focus. Dr. Nicole Glathe, a doctor of acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, calls it an easy way to tap into the body's self-regulation. Scientific studies support its efficacy for pain management by activating natural pain-relieving hormones. Djokovic's use of ear seeds aligns with his broader wellness philosophy, which includes a gluten- and dairy-free diet, breathwork, yoga, intermittent fasting, saunas, ice baths, and tree hugging. He also serves as global wellness advisor for Aman, curating programs for their resorts. This is not his first wellness innovation on court: at Wimbledon 2023, he wore a Taopatch, a nanotechnology device combining acupressure and light therapy. Despite his defeat at Wimbledon 2026, Djokovic is expected to continue using ear seeds in future tournaments.