In 2019, Novak Djokovic and Vasek Pospisil founded the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA), an organization looking to increase players’ input, giving them a greater say, when decisions were made about issues impacting them.
The advocacy included: addressing tournament and calendar scheduling concerns because of the impact they had on competitors’ physical and mental wellbeing; having a “seat” at the governance table so those responsible for the game’s growth, not a just few entities, had more control; and probably most significant… a more equitable share of the revenue garnered by the Grand Slams, as well as ATP/WTA events so that even lower ranked players would benefit.
Since it’s inception the PTPA sought to have meaningful discussions with Tennis Australia, the Lawn Tennis Association, French Tennis Federation, United States Tennis Association, ATP, WTA, International Tennis Federation and International Tennis Integrity Agency – “The Powers”, and no progress was made… resulting in antitrust lawsuits being filed in March 2025.
By June the ITF and ITIA were dropped as defendants and the focus turned to the “Cartel like” control exercised by the ATP and the WTA.
In September, the four Slam governing bodies, Tennis Australia – Australian Open; Lawn Tennis Association – The Championships; French Tennis Federation – Roland Garros; and United States Tennis Association – US Open, were added as defendants to the lawsuit…
By December, Tennis Australia and the PTPA had come to an agreement by which Tennis Australia didn’t admit misconduct, but would improve player compensation, improve tournament scheduling and do more for competitors’ welfare at the event… and continue to collaborate in the future.
While Tennis Australia awaits formal approval of the settlement by the New York court, an effort will be made to implement the changes at the 2026 Australian Open.
The decision by Tennis Australia to settle the lawsuit was significant because the “United Four” is now down one. This leaves the PTPA in a stronger position to improve tennis administration and the plight of professional players.
Update 5 January 2026
Novak Djokovic has announced on his social media that he has completely severed his involvement with the PTPA.
He stated that his decision was made “after ongoing concerns regarding transparency, governance, and the way my voice and image have been represented.
“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.”