Djokovic Breaks Ties with ATP Players Association, Charts a New Path in Tennis Governance
5 January 2026
Background and Timing
Novak Djokovic, the Serbian star, is set to return to competition in mid January at Adelaide, a 250 point event, as a lead up to the Australian Open. He publicly announced that he is severing ties with the ATP Players Association.
In a social media post he cited deep reflection and his decision to withdraw completely from the Players Association. He pointed to concerns about transparency governance and how his voice and image have been represented.
Djokovic and Vasek Pospisil co founded the association in 2020 to challenge the sport leadership and push for players rights.
From Legal Action to a Personal Break
On March 18 of last year the organization led by the 24 time Grand Slam champion filed lawsuits against the ATP, the WTA, ITF and the Tennis Integrity Unit.
It was notable that one co plaintiff signature was missing from the list. Others named included Nick Kyrgios, Riley Opelka and Sorana Cirstea along with Vasek Pospisil. Djokovic later said that some language used in the filing was perhaps too strong and described the suits as framing tennis bodies as a monopoly that undermines players interests.
Speaking now Djokovic said I am proud of the vision we shared at the founding of the association to give players a stronger independent voice but it has become clear that my values and approach no longer align with the direction of the organization. He is 38, the last of the big three still active, and says his focus remains on his career and family while promising to contribute to the sport in other ways that reflect his principles.
Closing Thoughts and a Smile
Djokovic is clear that this is a personal turn in a long career of advocacy for players rights, and a reminder that leadership in sport sometimes requires stepping away to shape a different future.
Punchline 1: He served notice and the racket is in his court. Punchline 2: If tennis governance ever needs a cameo, Djokovic will likely call it a net positive move and charge admission to the show.
