In a significant move within the tennis world, former swimmer and activist Riley Gaines has publicly expressed her support for Novak Djokovic after the Serbian champion announced his complete departure from the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA). Djokovic, who is currently focusing on preparations for the 2026 tennis season, decided to distance himself from the very organization he helped establish.
Djokovic's Departure from the PTPA
The decision, which quickly captured attention across the global sports community, marks a pivotal moment. Novak Djokovic co-founded the PTPA in 2020 alongside Canadian player Vasek Pospisil during the US Open. Now, five years later, he has chosen to sever ties. In a public statement, Djokovic clarified that his personal values no longer align with the group's current direction.
He explained his reasoning, stating, "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 expressed pride in the original vision he shared with Pospisil to give players a stronger, independent voice but concluded that his approach is no longer matched by the organization.
Riley Gaines' Public Endorsement
Riley Gaines reacted swiftly to the news. She reposted Djokovic's statement on the social media platform X, offering clear and concise encouragement. In her post, she wrote, "Onwards and upwards for @DjokerNole!" This response was widely interpreted as a full endorsement of Djokovic's choice to move forward independently of the association.
This instance is not the first time Gaines has stood in solidarity with Djokovic. She has previously commented on the evolving discourse around COVID-19 vaccination mandates in professional sports. For example, she referenced the case of NBA star Kyrie Irving, who faced restrictions during the 2021-22 season for refusing the vaccine. When sports commentator Stephen A. Smith reversed his earlier criticism of Irving in October 2025, Gaines reshared the viral clip.
In that post, she pointedly wrote, "I doubt we’ll be seeing an apology to @AaronRodgers12 or @DjokerNole anytime soon." She used this moment to highlight what she perceives as inconsistent treatment of athletes, noting that Djokovic's vaccination stance led to him missing the 2022 US Open and being barred from the Australian Open after his visa cancellation.
Broader Implications for Athlete Advocacy
The public alignment between Riley Gaines and Novak Djokovic underscores a continuing debate about athlete autonomy, governance in sports bodies, and personal conviction. Djokovic's exit from the PTPA raises questions about the future of player associations and the challenges of maintaining a unified voice. Gaines' support amplifies these issues, connecting them to wider discussions on individual rights and fairness in professional athletics.
As Djokovic turns his focus entirely to his training for the 2026 season, the sports world will be watching to see how the PTPA evolves without one of its most prominent founders and what further reactions his decision may provoke.
