Co-founder Novak Djokovic exits PTPA: "My values and approach are no longer aligned"

In 2019, Novak Djokovic co-founded the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA) with fellow ATP Tour competitor Vasek Pospisil.

The initiative officially launched at the height of the pandemic during the 2020 US Open, with Pospisil proclaiming, “The PTPA did not emerge to be combative, to disrupt, or to cause any issues within or outside the tennis tour. Simply to unify the players, have our voices heard & have an impact on decisions being made that effect our lives & livelihoods.”

More than five years since the PTPA officially took shape, Djokovic has announced he is fully severing ties from the organization after revealing the two sides no longer share common ground.

“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 wrote on X Sunday evening.

“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 organization.

“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.”

Ten months ago, the PTPA filed an antitrust lawsuit that named the ATP and WTA Tours, International Tennis Federation (ITF) and International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) as defendants.

The men’s tour responded by stating, “We strongly reject the premise of the PTPA’s claims, believe the case to be entirely without merit, and will vigorously defend our position. ATP remains committed to working in the best interests of the game - towards continued growth, financial stability, and the best possible future for our players, tournaments, and fans.”

Before forming the PTPA, Djokovic served as ATP Player Council president from 2016-20.

The 38-year-old is coming off a year where he reached the semifinals of all four Grand Slam events and surpassed 100 career titles. Djokovic is due to make his 2026 debut at the Adelaide International ahead of this month’s Australian Open.

We'll continue to monitor this developing story.