Novak Djokovic says he is withdrawing from the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA), which he co-founded, citing concerns about transparency and governance within the organization.
In an article on X, Djokovic wrote that the decision was also driven by how his voice and image had been portrayed.
Djokovic launched the PTPA alongside Vasek Pospisil in 2020 with the aim of strengthening player representation within the sport.
“I am proud of the vision Vasek and I shared in founding the PTPA, to give players a stronger and independent voice,” Djokovic wrote.
“But it has become clear that my values and approach no longer align with the current direction of the organization.”
In March PTPA launches legal action against tennis governing bodies including the ATP, WTA, International Tennis Federation and the International Tennis Integrity Agency.
The PTPA accused the organizations of anti-competitive practices and failing to protect the welfare of players.
The organizers of the four Grand Slam events were added to the file in September.
PTPA founder and governing bodies dispute allegations
Djokovic, a 24-time major singles champion, said at the time that he did not agree with all elements of the lawsuit, while the ATP and WTA strongly rejected the allegations.
The PTPA said in November it was close to reaching a deal with Tennis Australia, which is currently preparing for the Australian Open.
“The plaintiffs (the PTPA) and Tennis Australia are engaged in substantive and productive bilateral settlement discussions and believe that a settlement in respect of the plaintiffs’ claims against Tennis Australia is likely in the near future,” PTPA lawyers wrote.
Lawyers said both sides wanted to pause the proceedings while they reached an agreement.
The letter added that the request for a stay would only apply to Tennis Australia, and not the other defendants.
Tennis Australia confirmed the development.
“If the New York court approves a settlement between the parties, Tennis Australia will withdraw from the litigation,” the statement said.
Neither side has given details on what a potential deal might entail.
The Australian Open begins in Melbourne on January 18.
Reuters
