Why is Novak Djokovic leaving the Professional Tennis Players Association, the advocacy group he co-founded?

Novak Djokovic has decided to “step away completely from” the Professional Tennis Players Association, an advocacy group that he co-founded, due to concerns over transparency and governance within the organisation. The tennis star announced the decision on X on Sunday.

Djokovic launched the PTPA in 2020 alongside Vasek Pospisil. The main aim of the Professional Tennis Players Association is to strengthen player representation within tennis.

Why is Djokovic leaving PTPA?

But Djokovic said that he wants to disassociate himself from the organisation because his values and approach are no longer aligned with those of PTPA.

“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 said on X.

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.

— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) January 4, 2026

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“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.”

The 24-time Grand Slam winner, Djokovic, added that he would want to focus his energy on his tennis and contributing to the sport in a manner that reflects his “principles and integrity.”

“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.”

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.

— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) January 4, 2026

The difference between Djokovic and PTPA first appeared when the tennis body started legal actions against ATP, WTA, International Tennis Federation and International Tennis Integrity Agency in March 2025. PTPA accused the tennis bodies of anti-competitive practices.

The organisers of four Grand Slam events were also added to the legal case in September on accusations of failing to safeguard player welfare.

But Djokovic did not agree with these steps as he distanced himself from the legal action, stating that he did not agree with all the elements of the lawsuit.

Meanwhile, PTPA on Sunday said that the tennis body was created to protect players’ rights and is ready to make any changes to its functioning, if needed.

“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,” it said.