Novak Djokovic Quits PTPA Over Transparency and Governance Concerns
In a significant development in professional tennis governance, Novak Djokovic - the world No. 4 and one of the sport’s most influential figures - has formally exited the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA), an advocacy group he co-founded, citing concerns over transparency and governance within the organisation. The announcement marks a dramatic shift for the body he helped establish with Canadian player Vasek Pospisil in 2020, carrying major implications for player representation in global tennis.
Djokovic, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in tennis history, revealed his decision on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday. He stated that his “values and approach are no longer aligned with the current direction of the organisation.” While expressing pride in the vision he and Pospisil shared when founding the PTPA to provide players with a stronger, independent voice, Djokovic said ongoing concerns over internal transparency, governance practices, and the handling of his voice and image compelled him to step away.
"I am proud of the vision that Vasek and I shared when founding the PTPA, giving players a stronger, independent voice. But it has become clear that my values and approach are no longer aligned with the current direction of the organisation," Djokovic wrote. He added that he will now focus on his tennis, his family, and contributing to the sport in ways that reflect his principles and integrity. He wished the PTPA members and leadership the best as they “move forward,” indicating a clear finality in his departure.
Since its inception, the PTPA has positioned itself as both a platform for player advocacy in tennis and a challenger to the sport’s traditional power structures. Unlike conventional unions, the association was formed to represent players classified as independent contractors, addressing issues such as prize money distribution, player welfare, and scheduling. It has sought to engage with tennis’s governing bodies, including the ATP, WTA, International Tennis Federation, and the Grand Slam tournaments.
In March 2025, the PTPA escalated its stance by filing a high-profile class-action lawsuit against these governing entities. The legal action alleged anti-competitive practices, systemic neglect of player welfare, and inadequate profit-sharing models. It also argued that players face restrictions on off-court earning opportunities and are subjected to exploitative scheduling demands. Notably, Djokovic was not listed as a plaintiff in the lawsuit, highlighting earlier signs of divergence regarding the organisation’s increasingly confrontational approach.
The PTPA’s actions have drawn mixed reactions across the tennis community. While some players have praised its emphasis on empowerment and fairness, critics argue that the association lacks cohesion and broad consensus among players. Djokovic’s exit amplifies these internal challenges and raises fresh questions about the future effectiveness of the organisation without one of its most recognisable founders.
In response to Djokovic’s exit, the PTPA issued a statement reaffirming its mission to foster transparent governance and proactive engagement with players, emphasising that it remains open to dialogue and addressing concerns. The organisation also highlighted its ongoing work, including nearing an agreement with Tennis Australia ahead of the 2026 Australian Open, further signalling its intent to remain a key voice in the sport’s evolving governance.
For Djokovic, the focus shifts back to competition as he enters the new season eyeing a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title at the Australian Open while balancing his commitments on and off the court. His departure from the PTPA, however, leaves a significant mark on the ongoing debate about player representation and influence in professional tennis.
Djokovic, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in tennis history, revealed his decision on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday. He stated that his “values and approach are no longer aligned with the current direction of the organisation.” While expressing pride in the vision he and Pospisil shared when founding the PTPA to provide players with a stronger, independent voice, Djokovic said ongoing concerns over internal transparency, governance practices, and the handling of his voice and image compelled him to step away.
"I am proud of the vision that Vasek and I shared when founding the PTPA, giving players a stronger, independent voice. But it has become clear that my values and approach are no longer aligned with the current direction of the organisation," Djokovic wrote. He added that he will now focus on his tennis, his family, and contributing to the sport in ways that reflect his principles and integrity. He wished the PTPA members and leadership the best as they “move forward,” indicating a clear finality in his departure.
Since its inception, the PTPA has positioned itself as both a platform for player advocacy in tennis and a challenger to the sport’s traditional power structures. Unlike conventional unions, the association was formed to represent players classified as independent contractors, addressing issues such as prize money distribution, player welfare, and scheduling. It has sought to engage with tennis’s governing bodies, including the ATP, WTA, International Tennis Federation, and the Grand Slam tournaments.
In March 2025, the PTPA escalated its stance by filing a high-profile class-action lawsuit against these governing entities. The legal action alleged anti-competitive practices, systemic neglect of player welfare, and inadequate profit-sharing models. It also argued that players face restrictions on off-court earning opportunities and are subjected to exploitative scheduling demands. Notably, Djokovic was not listed as a plaintiff in the lawsuit, highlighting earlier signs of divergence regarding the organisation’s increasingly confrontational approach.
The PTPA’s actions have drawn mixed reactions across the tennis community. While some players have praised its emphasis on empowerment and fairness, critics argue that the association lacks cohesion and broad consensus among players. Djokovic’s exit amplifies these internal challenges and raises fresh questions about the future effectiveness of the organisation without one of its most recognisable founders.
In response to Djokovic’s exit, the PTPA issued a statement reaffirming its mission to foster transparent governance and proactive engagement with players, emphasising that it remains open to dialogue and addressing concerns. The organisation also highlighted its ongoing work, including nearing an agreement with Tennis Australia ahead of the 2026 Australian Open, further signalling its intent to remain a key voice in the sport’s evolving governance.
For Djokovic, the focus shifts back to competition as he enters the new season eyeing a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title at the Australian Open while balancing his commitments on and off the court. His departure from the PTPA, however, leaves a significant mark on the ongoing debate about player representation and influence in professional tennis.
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