Djokovic Quits Player Union He Co-Founded, Cites Misaligned Values and Approach
Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic steps away from Professional Tennis Players Association, saying his values and approach no longer align with the organisation.
Serbian, Dec 05 : Serbian tennis icon Novak Djokovic has officially stepped away from the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA), the player union he co-founded with Canadian star Vasek Pospisil. The move comes amid concerns over “ongoing transparency and governance” within the organisation.
Djokovic, who helped establish the PTPA to give professional tennis players a unified and independent voice, explained his decision on X (formerly Twitter). “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,” he said.
He added, “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 said he will now focus on tennis, family, and supporting the sport in ways consistent with his principles and integrity.
The PTPA has been at the centre of high-profile legal action against tennis governing bodies. In March 2025, the union and over a dozen players filed lawsuits against the ATP, WTA, ITF, and ITIA, claiming antitrust violations and demanding reforms to allow players greater earnings both on and off the court. The governing bodies have strongly rejected the allegations.
Djokovic’s exit marks a significant shift for the PTPA, which was founded to challenge the traditional structure of professional tennis and advocate for player rights and financial transparency.
