In a significant move that rocks the tennis world, Serbian superstar Novak Djokovic has completely ended his involvement with the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA), the breakaway players' union he helped establish.
A Founding Vision Abandoned
The 24-time Grand Slam champion, who co-founded the organisation with Canadian player Vasek Pospisil back in 2021, announced his decision via social media platform X. Djokovic stated his departure stemmed from "ongoing concerns regarding transparency, governance, and the way my voice and image have been represented" by the association.
He expressed pride in the original vision he shared with Pospisil, which aimed to give professional tennis competitors a stronger and more independent collective voice. However, Djokovic made it clear that his personal values and approach have diverged from the PTPA's current trajectory.
Legal Action and Internal Disagreement
The split follows a period of heightened tension between the PTPA and tennis's traditional governing bodies. In March of last year, the association launched legal action against major organisations including the ATP, WTA, International Tennis Federation, and the International Tennis Integrity Agency.
The lawsuit levelled serious accusations of "systemic abuse, anti-competitive practices, and a blatant disregard for player welfare" against these established institutions. Notably, Djokovic publicly admitted at the time that he disagreed with certain aspects of this legal challenge. Both the ATP and WTA issued strong rebuttals to the PTPA's claims.
Focus Returns to the Court
With this chapter closed, Djokovic's attention now turns firmly back to his on-court ambitions as the new tennis season gets underway. His immediate quest is a record-extending 25th Grand Slam singles title, a pursuit that begins in earnest at the Australian Open in Melbourne.
The world number one will be targeting an unprecedented 11th crown at Melbourne Park. In his statement, Djokovic confirmed he would "continue to focus on my tennis, my family, and contributing to the sport in ways that reflect my principles and integrity."
He concluded by wishing the players and others involved in the PTPA well for the future, but firmly stated that his own involvement has now concluded.
