In a significant development for the world of tennis, global superstar Novak Djokovic has announced his complete departure from the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA), the organisation he helped establish. The 24-time Grand Slam champion cited serious issues related to transparency, governance, and the representation of his voice as the core reasons for his exit.
Djokovic's Announcement and Core Concerns
The Serbian legend made his decision public through a detailed social media post on Sunday. Djokovic, 38, confirmed he is stepping away entirely from the PTPA, a body he co-founded with Canadian player Vasek Pospisil during the 2020 US Open. The primary goal of the association was to give professional tennis players, who operate largely as independent contractors, a stronger and more independent collective voice.
"After careful consideration, I have decided to step away completely from the Professional Tennis Players Association," Djokovic wrote. He elaborated that this move followed persistent worries about how the organisation is run. His concerns specifically centred on a lack of transparency, problems in governance, and the manner in which his personal stance and image were being portrayed by the association.
"I am proud of the vision that Vasek and I shared when founding the PTPA, giving players a stronger, independent voice," Djokovic added. "But it has become clear that my values and approach are no longer aligned with the current direction of the organization."
Background: The PTPA's Ambitions and Recent Lawsuit
The PTPA was created with the long-term ambition of evolving into a fully-fledged union capable of collective bargaining for players, mirroring models seen in major team sports. Its establishment marked a pivotal moment in player-led advocacy within tennis.
This announcement from Djokovic comes several months after a major legal action initiated by the PTPA. In March 2025, the association filed a class-action lawsuit against the sport's leading bodies: the ATP, WTA, International Tennis Federation, and the sport’s integrity agency. The Grand Slam tournaments were later included as defendants in the case.
The lawsuit levelled serious accusations, including "systemic abuse, anti-competitive practices and a blatant disregard for player welfare." It also criticised the gruelling, 11-month tennis calendar as "unsustainable" and argued that while prize money is effectively capped, players' opportunities to earn from commercial avenues are unfairly restricted.
Notably, Djokovic's name was absent from the list of plaintiffs in that lawsuit. At the time, he explained his position by stating, "I want other players to step up," indicating a desire for broader leadership within the player movement.
Moving Forward: Djokovic's Focus and the Road Ahead
In his departure statement, the world number one indicated he would now channel his energy into other pursuits. "I will continue to focus on my tennis, my family, and contributing to the sport in ways that reflect my principles and integrity," Djokovic stated. He concluded by wishing the best to the players and others involved with the PTPA but firmly closed the chapter on his own involvement.
The tennis icon is currently preparing for the upcoming season. His schedule includes the Adelaide ATP event, which runs from January 12 to 17, serving as a warm-up for the Australian Open. At Melbourne Park, Djokovic will launch his campaign for a historic 25th Grand Slam singles title, aiming to further cement his legendary status in the sport.
Djokovic's exit raises questions about the future direction and influence of the PTPA, which has now lost its most famous and influential founding member. The development underscores the ongoing tensions between player advocacy groups and the established governing structures in professional tennis.
