Tennis star Novak Djokovic has announced his decision to step away from the Professional Tennis Players Association. This is the players’ union he co-founded in 2020. He is citing concerns over transparency and governance within the organisation.
Djokovic shared the decision on Sunday through a social media post. He said he had carefully considered his position before choosing to leave the body entirely.
“After careful consideration, I have decided to step away completely from the Professional Tennis Players Association,” Djokovic said. “This decision comes after ongoing concerns regarding transparency, governance, and the way my voice and image have been represented.”
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, 2026Djokovic and Canadian player Vasek Pospisil founded the Professional Tennis Players Association to provide players with a stronger, more independent collective voice. In March 2025, the PTPA launched legal action against tennis governing bodies. It accused them of anti-competitive practices and highlighted what it described as an unsustainable playing schedule.
Read: Carlos Alcaraz Rejects PTPA Lawsuit Against ATP
The lawsuit criticised the structure of the professional calendar. It noted that tournaments run for almost 11 months of the year across both the men’s Association of Tennis Professionals and the women’s Women’s Tennis Association circuits.
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, 2026Despite stepping away, Djokovic said he remains proud of the original mission behind the PTPA. However, he acknowledged that his values no longer align with the organisation’s current direction.
“I am proud of the vision Vasek and I shared when founding the PTPA,” he said. “But it has become clear that my values and approach are no longer aligned with where the organisation is heading.”
The 38-year-old, who has won a record 24 Grand Slam titles, said his focus will now return fully to tennis and family. Moreover, he will be contributing to the sport in other meaningful ways.
Djokovic is preparing for a major milestone. He targets a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title at the Australian Open. Before that, he is scheduled to compete at the Adelaide International from January 12 to 17 as part of his build-up to the new season.
