TENNIS: Djokovic exits tennis players' association over transparency concerns

Novak Djokovic announced on Sunday that he will step away completely from the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA), the advocacy group he co-founded, citing concerns over transparency and governance within the organization.

Djokovic, who launched the PTPA alongside Vasek Pospisil in 2020 to strengthen player representation in tennis, shared on X that his decision was also influenced by how his voice and image had been represented.

"I am proud of the vision that Vasek and I shared when founding the PTPA, giving players a stronger, independent voice," Djokovic said.

"But it has become clear that my values and approach are no longer aligned with the current direction of the organization."

The Serbian tennis star added that he would now focus on his tennis career, his family, and contributing to the sport in ways that reflect his 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 said.

The PTPA responded in a statement late Sunday, noting that the association was created by players to secure a stronger and more transparent voice in professional tennis and that it remains open to addressing any concerns.

"The PTPA is governed by players and operates with open communication, collaborative decisions, and regular engagement. We always welcome the opportunity to address issues with any player and remain available to do so," the statement read.

In March, the PTPA launched legal action against tennis’s governing bodies—including the ATP, WTA, International Tennis Federation, and International Tennis Integrity Agency—accusing them of anti-competitive practices. Organizers of the four Grand Slam events were added to the case in September. The lawsuit also accused the governing bodies of failing to safeguard player welfare.

Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, had previously said he did not agree with all elements of the lawsuit. Both the ATP and WTA have strongly rejected the allegations.

In November, the PTPA announced it was close to reaching a deal with Tennis Australia ahead of the Australian Open, which begins in Melbourne on January 18, kicking off the new Grand Slam season.

-Reporting by Shrivathsa Sridhar and Tommy Lund; Editing by Toby Davis and Peter Rutherford/Reuters