Djokovic clarifies absence from PTPA lawsuit, urges younger players to step up

Novak Djokovic has distanced himself from the legal action taken by the Professional Tennis Players' Association (PTPA) against the ATP and WTA, stating that while he agrees with some aspects of the lawsuit, there are also parts he does not fully support.

Speaking at a press conference at the Miami Open on 20 march, Djokovic expressed concerns over certain wording used in the lawsuit and emphasised his desire for younger players to take a more active role in shaping tennis politics.

"This is a classic lawsuit—lawyers dealing with lawyers," Djokovic said. "To be quite frank, there are things I agree with and things I don't. I found some of the wording quite strong, but I trust the legal team knows what they are doing to achieve the desired effect."

Djokovic co-founded the PTPA in 2020 alongside Canadian Vasek Pospisil, yet he was notably absent from the 20 players named in the lawsuit filed on 19 march. He explained that the organisation has evolved significantly over the past five years, now employing around 30 full-time staff who handle its daily operations.

"I am part of the executive committee, but I don't have power over decisions. I don't have a veto," he said, indicating that his influence over the lawsuit was limited.

Djokovic stressed that his decision not to sign the legal document was a deliberate move to encourage other players to step forward and take responsibility.

"I felt I didn't need to sign the letter because I want other players to step up," he said. "I've been heavily involved in tennis politics for years, even during my peak playing days when I had little time and energy. But I felt it was my responsibility to use my position to support players and fight for their rights."

With nearly two decades on the tour, Djokovic acknowledged that some changes had been made but insisted that fundamental issues remained unresolved.

"I really hope that all governing bodies, including the PTPA, will come together to address these issues," he added.

Carlos Alcaraz stated on 19 march that he did not support the lawsuit, but Djokovic argued that top players have an obligation to advocate for those lower in the rankings.

"Many people rely on me to speak on these matters, and I don't mind doing so," he said. "But I want to see current and future leaders of the sport take the initiative. These issues affect not just them but hundreds or thousands of professional players worldwide."

Djokovic stressed that even those who are not part of the PTPA or any player representation body still hold influence over the sport.

"As a top player, you are celebrated and looked up to. With that comes responsibility. You have to carry that weight, remember where you came from, and understand how hard it is for young professionals trying to break through," he said.