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Novak Djokovic Exits Player Union He Co-Founded Over Governance Clash

Novak Djokovic has announced his complete departure from the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA), which he co-founded with Vasek Pospisil. He cited ongoing issues with the organization's transparency, governance, and the representation of his voice. The PTPA is currently engaged in a significant antitrust lawsuit against tennis's major governing bodies, alleging they cap player earnings. Djokovic stated he will now focus on his tennis career and family.

Key Points: Djokovic Steps Away From PTPA Over Transparency Issues

  • Djokovic cites transparency concerns
  • Co-founded PTPA with Vasek Pospisil
  • Will focus on tennis and family
  • PTPA involved in major antitrust lawsuit
  • ATP and WTA reject legal accusations
2 min read

My values & approach no longer aligned with the organisation: Djokovic steps away from player union he co-founded

Novak Djokovic leaves the players' association he co-founded with Vasek Pospisil, citing misalignment with its direction and governance concerns.

"my values and approach are no longer aligned - Novak Djokovic"

New Delhi, Jan 5

Serbian tennis great Novak Djokovic said he has "stepped away completely from the Professional Tennis Players Association", which he co-founded, citing concerns regarding "ongoing transparency and governance".

Djokovic and Canadian tennis player Vasek Pospisil founded Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA) as a not-for-profit corporation to ensure players have a unified, independent voice in shaping the future of professional tennis.

"After careful consideration, I have decided to step away completely from the Professional Tennis Players Association. This decision comes after ongoing concerns regarding transparency, governance, and the way my voice and image have been represented," Djokovic posted on X.

"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," the post read.

"I will continue to focus on my tennis, my family, and contributing to the sport in ways that reflect my principles and integrity. I wish the players and those involved the best as they move forward, but for me, this chapter is now closed," he added.

In March 2025, the PTPA and over a dozen players filed a sweeping series of legal actions against the ATP, WTA, ITF and ITIA to reform professional tennis, accusing them of several antitrust violations.

The lawsuit says players should gain access to more earnings, arguing that the governing bodies that oversee the four Grand Slam tournaments - Wimbledon, the U.S. Open, the French Open and the Australian Open - and other professional events cap the prize money tournaments award and limit players' ability to earn money off the court.

The ATP and WTA both strongly rejected the accusations and said they would defend their position.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

A
Aman W
This is a big blow for the PTPA. He was the face and the driving force. Without Novak's star power, will the lawsuit against ATP/WTA have the same weight? 🤔 The timing seems critical.
R
Rahul R
Transparency and governance issues in a players' union? Irony alert! This is why we need strong systems, not just big names. Maybe he realized it became more about politics than players. Focus on your tennis, champ!
S
Sarah B
Respectfully, this feels like quitting when the going gets tough. He started this fight for the lower-ranked players. Now, right in the middle of a major legal battle, he steps away? Not a good look for leadership.
K
Karthik V
As an Indian sports fan, I see parallels. When our cricket stars tried to form associations in the past, there were always internal clashes. It's hard to keep everyone united when egos and different approaches come into play. Sad but predictable.
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Nisha Z
Family first always! 👏 If the work environment (even one you created) becomes toxic or misaligned, it's absolutely okay to close that chapter. His mental peace is important for his game and his life.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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